The Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal (ACM) AP Singh, made a significant statement by claiming that the Indian S-400 missile system successfully downed five Pakistani Air Force (PAF) fighter jets during the recent Operation Sindoor.
Additionally, an Airborne Early Warning and Control/Electronic Intelligence (AEW&C/ELINT) aircraft was destroyed from a distance of 300 kilometers. Reliable intelligence also led to the destruction of some F-16 aircraft stationed at Jacobabad and an AEW&C aircraft at Bholari Air Base.
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Source: aajtak
The Power of S-400 in Operation Sindoor
According to ACM AP Singh, India reinforced its aerial defense during Operation Sindoor by deploying the S-400, an advanced surface-to-air missile system acquired from Russia, capable of targeting threats up to 400 kilometers away.
The operation witnessed the formidable performance of the S-400, which successfully downed five Pakistani fighter jets mid-air. The striking achievement of targeting an AEW&C/ELINT aircraft from 300 kilometers away underscores the system’s impressive range and precision. The AEW&C aircraft plays a crucial role in surveillance and intelligence gathering, making its destruction a significant setback for Pakistan.
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Attacks on Jacobabad and Bholari
Source: aajtak
The IAF Chief also claimed that precise intelligence enabled the destruction of F-16 fighter jets parked at Jacobabad airbase, as well as targeting another AEW&C at Bholari airbase. These assaults demonstrate India’s access to accurate enemy movement data, used at the perfect moment.
What was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was a brief yet intense military confrontation between India and Pakistan in May 2025. During this, India demonstrated its aerial supremacy through strategic strikes using S-400 and BrahMos missiles targeting key Pakistani sites. This operation highlighted India's defensive capabilities and precision strike efficiency to the global audience.
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The Role and Future of S-400
India's acquisition of the S-400 system from Russia, a $5.4 billion deal, marquees a game-changing step in its aerial defense strategy. Capable of tracking and targeting up to 80 threats simultaneously, it presents a formidable challenge for adversaries.
Source: aajtak
The triumph witnessed during Operation Sindoor positions India to maintain its dominance in the region’s airspace. Discussions are underway for further S-400 acquisitions and potential procurement of the next-generation S-500 systems, one capable of targeting threats up to 600 kilometers away.
Impact on Pakistan
For Pakistan, the loss faced by their air force could be substantial. The destruction of valuable assets like F-16s and AEW&C aircraft inevitably weakens their aerial strength. Particularly, the loss of AEW&C, which plays an integral role in their surveillance and strategy, could be a major blow. This incident might prompt Pakistan to reassess its air defense strategies.
What Does This Mean?
ACM AP Singh’s statements underscore India’s military prowess and strategic acumen. While independent verification of these claims is pending, if proven accurate, it could elevate India's aerial capabilities to new heights. However, it also raises concerns about escalating tensions with Pakistan, as such operations might affect regional stability.
