Operation Sindhur – A Decisive Blow to Pakistan Air Force Infrastructure
In response to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India launched a swift and coordinated military operation named Operation Sindhur, targeting Pakistan’s critical air force infrastructure. This unprecedented strike saw India simultaneously attacking 11 Pakistan Air Force bases, marking the first time a country has taken out such a significant portion of another nation’s aerial military assets in a single coordinated offensive.
Major Highlights of Operation Sindhur
- India destroyed nearly 20% of Pakistan Air Force’s infrastructure, dealing a massive blow to its aerial combat capabilities.
- The key target was the 100th Bolari Airbase near Karachi, a crucial military installation, which was completely destroyed.
- Among the destroyed assets were 8 F-16 fighter jets and 4 JF-17 fighter jets, considered the backbone of Pakistan’s modern air combat fleet.
- Additionally, important airborne early warning systems such as the Saab 2000 Erieye AEW&C aircraft (valued at $93 million) and the IL-78 aerial refueling tanker (valued at $35 million) were also destroyed, severely impacting Pakistan’s air coordination capabilities.
Economic and Strategic Impact
- The total economic damage from Operation Sindhur is estimated to be around $3.36 billion USD (approximately 30,000 crore Indian Rupees).
- The loss of four F-16 Block 52D fighter jets alone is estimated at $350 million.
- Other destroyed assets include anti-ship and missile systems like the CM-400AKG and Shaheen-class missiles, unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) like Bayraktar TB2 drones, a C-130H Hercules transport aircraft, advanced surface-to-air missile batteries (HQ-9 SAM), and mobile command centers.
- These losses significantly degrade Pakistan’s aerial offensive and defensive posture for years to come.
Pakistan’s Response and Propaganda
Following the strikes, Pakistan claimed it had shot down 8 Indian fighter jets including Rafales and struck down India’s S-400 air defense systems. However, these claims have been disproven by open-source intelligence and independent analysis, confirming these were misinformation efforts typical of Pakistan’s propaganda.
Expert Opinions
Security analysts concur that Operation Sindhur has substantially diminished Pakistan Air Force’s readiness and will impact its ability to respond effectively to future aerial threats. The operation reflects India’s strategic capability not only to counter immediate threats but also to weaken terrorist infrastructure comprehensively.
Significance of Operation Sindhur
This operation is more than a military strike; it is a calculated strategic action designed to dismantle the roots of terrorism and degrade Pakistan’s military capabilities significantly. India has sent a clear message of resolve and capability to maintain peace and stability in the South Asian region.
