Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors Pakistan and India escalated dramatically this week, as Pakistan’s military announced it had shot down five Indian Air Force (IAF) jets, a combat drone, and destroyed several military installations in a powerful retaliatory response to alleged Indian missile strikes.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, confirmed that all Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aircraft returned safely after confronting Indian forces in the skies.
According to Lt Gen Chaudhry, the downed Indian aircraft include:
Three French-made Rafale jets
One Sukhoi Su-30MKI
One MiG-29 Fulcrum
In addition to air assets, the Pakistani military claims to have destroyed Indian brigade headquarters and multiple checkposts across several sectors along the Line of Control (LoC)—the de facto border in the disputed Kashmir region.
“Indian aircraft fired missiles into Pakistani territory early Wednesday. In response, Pakistan launched swift and calculated retaliatory strikes,” the ISPR spokesperson said.
The ISPR also accused India of launching an unprovoked and “cowardly attack,” prompting what it described as a “strong and decisive response” from both the Pakistan Air Force and Army.
Security sources late Tuesday had already indicated heightened military readiness, with reports of cross-border fire and troop movements.
Although Indian officials have yet to confirm or respond to the Pakistani claims, the situation has drawn international concern, with diplomatic observers urging both sides to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.
The developments mark one of the most serious military confrontations between the two South Asian powers in recent years and revive memories of past conflicts over Kashmir, a region both countries claim in full but control in parts.
