Tensions soared between India and Pakistan when Pakistan engaged in provocative actions, attempting to hit residential areas across several Indian cities. However, the Indian security forces neutralized these efforts. In retaliation, India adopted a firm stance and decisively responded to Pakistan's provocative actions by targeting six major Pakistani airbases with missile strikes.
Key targets in India's missile strikes included Murid Chakwal, Sorkot Airbase, Chunian Airbase, Rahim Yar Khan Airbase in Punjab, and Noor Khan Airbase, suffering significant damage. Pakistani military spokesperson General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry claimed that India fired air-to-surface missiles from its fighter jets at these airbases.
Murid Chakwal Airbase, Punjab-
Murid Chakwal Airbase is a principal military airfield located in Pakistan's Punjab province, approximately 120 kilometers from Islamabad. Serving as a strategic hub for the Pakistan Air Force, it's vital for air defense, training, and combat operations.
Murid Chakwal Airbase's strategic significance underscores its critical role in regional security. Facilities here include runways, hangars, a control tower, and modern military amenities. Additionally, it serves as a central hub for Pakistan's unmanned aerial operations (UAV/UCAV), hosting advanced drones like Shahpar-1 and Bayraktar TB2. Numerous drone assaults on India originated from this base, marking India's response as a direct answer to Pakistani aggression.
Sukkur Airbase, PAF Base Bholari-
Located in the district of Jamshoro between Karachi and Hyderabad in Sindh province, Sukkur Airbase functions under the Southern Air Command. Known widely as PAF Base Bholari, it recently activated operationally, hosting 19 squadrons and the Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). This is a base where F-16A/B Block 15 ADF fighter aircraft operate.
Chunian Airbase, Near Kasur, Punjab-
Chunian Airbase is a significant operational facility for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), situated near Chunian city, about 70 kilometers south of Lahore. This airfield is integral to Pakistan's air defense system.
Noor Khan Airbase, Rawalpindi-
Previously known as Chaklala Airbase, Noor Khan Airbase is a crucial and strategically vital station for the Pakistan Air Force. It's located in the Chaklala area of Rawalpindi near Islamabad International Airport. The base is named in honor of former air marshal Noor Khan. This base is predominantly used for VIP movements and logistics operations. It plays a critical role in executing Pakistan's high-level military flights and special missions, making it a 'lifeline' for the Pakistan Air Force.
Rafiqui Airbase, Shorkot (Punjab)-
Situated near Shorkot in Pakistan's Jhang district, PAF Rafiqui Airbase was also targeted in India's strike. Known for its role in aggressive aerial campaigns, this base honors Squadron Leader Sarfaraz Ahmed Rafiqui, who was martyred in the 1965 India-Pakistan war. Advanced fighter jets like the JF-17 Thunder and Mirage are stationed here. Under the Central Air Command of Pakistan's Air Force, it allows swift action on both western and eastern fronts. Its long runways and advanced maintenance facilities mark it as a pivotal column of Pakistan's aerial defenses.
Rahim Yar Khan Airbase, Punjab-
India directed its strike at Rahim Yar Khan Airbase last night, resulting in a sizable crater. Officially known as PAF Base Rahim Yar Khan, this military airstrip is positioned in the southern region of Punjab province near its neighboring city of the same name, in Pakistan Air Force's listing of airbases. The geographical positioning enhances its strategic importance, enabling rapid response and operations in the country’s southern and eastern areas. On May 10, 2025, the airbase bore a significant crater from a missile strike, suggesting a military engagement.
