Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, announced on Friday that the IAF successfully destroyed 4 to 5 Pakistani fighter jets, believed to be F-16s, during Operation Sindoor. This operation marks a significant milestone in India’s military capabilities.
Addressing reporters in New Delhi, Singh stated that the IAF executed precision strikes on multiple Pakistani airbases. The operation inflicted considerable damage to radars, command centres, runways, hangars, and a surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, disrupting Pakistan’s air operations.
“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,” said the Air Chief Marshal.
Singh further revealed that the IAF engaged its newly procured long-range SAMs during the operation, effectively preventing the Pakistan Air Force from planning any operations within its own airspace. Furthermore, the mission achieved a historic milestone — the longest successful missile strike of over 300 kilometres, debilitating Pakistan’s ability to respond in the air.
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 urged that this experience should serve as a lesson for the world, especially in light of ongoing international conflicts that remain unresolved. This operation, the IAF Chief emphasizes, showcases India’s strategic prowess and operational readiness.
