Operation Sindoor: India's Precision Strikes One-fifth of Pakistan Air Force Infrastructure

In a decisive military response, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched Operation Sindoor on May 10, 2025, targeting key installations of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). This operation was a direct retaliation to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which resulted in the loss of 26 Indian civilians.

Strategic Execution and Targets

Operation Sindoor was meticulously planned to minimize collateral damage while maximizing impact on Pakistan's military capabilities. The IAF employed advanced weaponry, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, HAMMER, and SCALP missiles, to carry out precision strikes. Notably, this marked the first combat use of the BrahMos missile, renowned for its speed and accuracy.

The operation targeted over a dozen PAF bases, including:

• Nur Khan (Chaklala, Rawalpindi): A critical base housing transport aircraft and AWACS systems. Satellite imagery indicated significant damage to runways and infrastructure.

• Rafiqui (Shorkot, Punjab): Hosting JF-17 and Mirage 5 squadrons, this base's runway sustained heavy damage, affecting rapid deployment capabilities.

• Murid (Chakwal, Punjab): Known for its drone fleet, including Bayraktar TB2s and Wing Loong IIs, the base's UAV infrastructure was reportedly neutralized.

• Sukkur (Bholari, Sindh): A newer base operating AWACS, F-16s and JF-17s, with satellite images confirming a direct hit on a quick-reaction alert hangar.

• Sialkot and Pasrur (Punjab): Forward operating bases near the Line of Control, with radar sites and air defense units destroyed.

• Chunian (Punjab): An operational base with disrupted radar and communication systems.

• Sargodha (Mushaf, Punjab): Housing the Central Air Command and nuclear-capable aircraft, the base suffered runway damage and asset losses.

• Skardu (PoK): A strategic northern base, with damage degrading Pakistan's surveillance and air operational capabilities.

• Jacobabad (Shahbaz, Sindh): Hosting F-16s and AW139 helicopters, with extensive damage to hangars and support areas.

• Rahim Yar Khan (Punjab): A forward base with its runway rendered non-operational due to a large crater.

Impact on Pakistan's Air Force

The strikes resulted in the destruction of approximately 20% of Pakistan's air force infrastructure. This includes damage to runways, hangars, command and control centers, and several fighter aircraft, such as JF-17 Thunders and F-16 Fighting Falcons. The loss of these assets significantly diminishes Pakistan's capacity to conduct offensive air operations.

Technological and Strategic Prowess

India's use of advanced indigenous weaponry and precision targeting showcased its technological and strategic capabilities. The operation demonstrated India's ability to conduct deep strikes into enemy territory with minimal collateral damage, reinforcing its position in the region.

Aftermath and Ceasefire

Following the extensive damage inflicted by Operation Sindoor, a ceasefire was declared on May 13, 2025. While both nations claimed victory, the operation underscored India's commitment to defending its sovereignty and responding decisively to acts of terrorism.

Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India's military precision and strategic planning. By targeting critical components of Pakistan's air force infrastructure, India delivered a significant blow to its adversary's offensive capabilities, reinforcing its stance against terrorism and aggression.