Pakistan’s Air Force Reeling After Operation Sindoor, Air Chief Details Damage

Precision strikes using indigenously developed long-range weapons targeted installations up to 1,200 km along the border and nearly 200 km deep into enemy territory, while minimizing civilian casualties. At least four radar sites were neutralized, crippling Pakistan’s air defence “eyes,” and two command-and-control centres were demolished, disrupting coordination. Three hangars and runways at separate airbases were heavily damaged, grounding parked fighter jets. 

The fall of U.S.-made F-16s deals a blow to Pakistan’s reliance on American support, while losses among China-co-developed JF-17s raise questions about technology transfers. The destruction of the C-130 Hercules hampers logistical supply chains critical for troop and equipment movement. Pakistan reportedly requested a ceasefire immediately after the operation. 

Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi warned that if Pakistan continues to harbour terror groups, “its history and geography” could be rewritten. He hinted at Operation Sindoor 2.0, vowing more decisive action without the restraint shown in the first phase. 

Senior defence analysts note that despite admitting some IAF assets were lost, Indian leadership emphasizes mission success over equipment losses. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and DGMO Air Marshal A K Bharti earlier acknowledged limited Indian casualties but highlighted that all pilots returned safely. 

While the government has neither confirmed nor denied specifics, the public disclosure of extensive damage marks a significant shift in India’s strategic messaging. As tensions escalate, Pakistan’s next moves—diplomatic protests, military retaliation, or restraint—will shape regional stability in the coming months.