Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, revealed on Friday that 4 to 5 Pakistani fighter jets, believed to be F-16s, were destroyed on the ground during Operation Sindoor. This announcement comes after a series of precision strikes carried out by the IAF on multiple Pakistani airbases, leading to considerable damage to critical infrastructure.
Addressing the media in New Delhi, Singh detailed how the IAF’s operation inflicted heavy destruction on radars, command centres, runways, hangars, and a surface-to-air missile system. He mentioned that alongside these strikes, a C-130-class transport aircraft and potentially a high-value surveillance plane faced destruction.
“We struck a large number of their airfields and installations…radars at four places, command centres at two locations, two runways, and three hangars were destroyed. We have evidence of one C-130 aircraft being hit, and at least 4–5 fighters, most likely F-16s, which were under maintenance at that time,” the Air Chief Marshal stated.
Singh emphasized the significance of employing newly procured long-range surface-to-air missiles, which effectively restricted the Pakistan Air Force’s operations within its territory. The mission achieved a historic milestone — the longest successful missile strike of over 300 kilometres, crippling Pakistan’s aerial response capabilities.
Describing the operation as a decisive and time-bound success, Singh remarked, “This was a war started with a clear objective and concluded swiftly once our goals were achieved. Unlike prolonged global conflicts, India demonstrated that clarity and precision can force an adversary to ask for a ceasefire.”
He pointed out that this experience should serve as a lesson for the world, especially against the backdrop of ongoing international conflicts that exhibit no signs of resolution. The successful execution of Operation Sindoor solidifies India’s military capabilities and strategic deterrence.
