In the wake of the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 Indians dead, India responded with a calculated and overwhelming military retaliation: Operation Sindoor. Launched on May 7, this four-day campaign crippled Pakistan’s aerial capabilities, decimated key command centres, and sent a clear signal to both adversaries and observers—the Indian Air Force is no longer reactive; it is doctrinally offensive and technologically precise.

Prelude to the Storm

The Pahalgam attack was not just another act of cross-border terrorism; it was a blatant provocation aimed at destabilising the region. Recognising the gravity of the situation, the Indian defence establishment, under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, initiated Operation Sindoor. The objective was clear: dismantle the terror infrastructure and deliver a crippling blow to Pakistan’s military capabilities.

Day One: Tactical Reassessment and Strategic Strikes

The initial phase of the operation witnessed a tactical recalibration. Facing unexpected resistance, the IAF swiftly adapted its strategy, emphasising electronic warfare and precision targeting. This adaptability was evident as the IAF jammed Pakistan’s Chinese-supplied air defense systems within 23 minutes, paving the way for unhindered aerial assaults.

Decimation of Pakistani Air Assets

1. Fighter Jets Shot Down

Six Pakistani fighter jets were destroyed: three JF-17 Thunders, two Mirage III/V variants, and one F-16 Block 52. These were eliminated via BVR missile engagements and stand-off munitions strikes near Jacobabad, Rahim Yar Khan, and Sargodha. This loss devastated Pakistan’s QRA network.

2. AEW&C Platforms Eliminated

Two airborne surveillance aircraft—Saab 2000 Erieye and ZDK-03 Karakoram Eagle—were destroyed. The former was downed from 314 km using India’s S-400 system, while the latter was destroyed in a strike on Bholari Airbase. These kills blinded the PAF during the operation’s peak.

3. C-130 Hercules and Special Forces Hit

A C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, with elite personnel on board, was destroyed at Nur Khan Airbase via a BrahMos NG missile strike. The kill disrupted logistics and morale.

4. Drones and UCAVs Neutralized

Over 15 Pakistani UCAVs, including Chinese Wing Loong drones, were destroyed in airspace interceptions and base attacks. India’s Akashteer and SAMAR systems achieved 100 per cent success rate during the campaign.

Precision Strikes on Pakistan’s Strategic Airbases

1. Nur Khan Airbase (Chaklala)

This airbase, located near Rawalpindi and used frequently for both strategic airlift and VIP movement, is one of Pakistan’s most high-profile installations. It houses C-130 Hercules aircraft, the PAF’s Special Services Wing (SSW), and at times, acts as a backup command center for Air Headquarters.

The IAF targeted Nur Khan with a mix of loitering munitions and BrahMos NG missiles.

One C-130 Hercules was destroyed during active loading operations. The aircraft was reportedly preparing for a special forces’ deployment.

The strike also resulted in the death of 12 personnel, including elite aircrew and........

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