**IAF Chief Reveals Major Success Against Pakistani Air Force**
In a significant announcement, Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh disclosed that during Operation Sindoor, the armed forces successfully targeted and destroyed five Pakistani fighter jets along with an airborne surveillance aircraft. This operation was a direct response to the Pahalgam terror attack and took place on May 10.
Speaking at the Air Chief Marshal LM Katre lecture in Bengaluru, Singh detailed the extent of the damage inflicted on Pakistan’s military capabilities. He confirmed that several US-made F-16 jets sustained damage at the Jacobabad airbase, which was among the key military sites targeted by India. The operation also resulted in the destruction of two command and control centers and multiple radar installations.
Singh stated, “We have at least five confirmed kills of fighter jets and one large aircraft, which could be either an ELINT or an AEW&C aircraft, taken down from a distance of about 300 kilometers. This represents the largest recorded surface-to-air kill we can discuss.” This marks the first time the IAF has publicly acknowledged the scale of damage to the Pakistani air fleet during the operation.
The IAF Chief also highlighted the severe impact on air bases in Pakistan, particularly the Jacobabad airfield, where significant damage to an F-16 hangar was reported. “One half of the hangar is gone, and I am sure there were aircraft inside that got damaged,” he noted. The operation’s success was attributed to the advanced capabilities of the Russian-made S-400 Triumf air defense system, which has proven to be a game changer by keeping enemy aircraft at bay.
Singh presented satellite images showing the aftermath of the strikes on nine terror targets, emphasizing that there was no collateral damage, countering claims of civilian casualties made by Pakistan. The strikes reportedly resulted in the elimination of around 100 terrorists.
Addressing concerns about operational restrictions, Singh asserted that the military had full autonomy in planning and executing the attacks. “A key reason for our success was the political will. There were clear directives given to us, and no restrictions were imposed,” he stated.
In conclusion, the IAF’s decisive actions during Operation Sindoor have not only demonstrated its operational capabilities but also underscored the importance of political support in military operations.
**FAQ**
**What was Operation Sindoor?**
Operation Sindoor was a military operation conducted by the Indian Air Force in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, resulting in significant damage to Pakistani military assets.