During the tensions between India and Pakistan in May 2025, under "Operation Sindoor," India launched strategic strikes on Pakistan's military installations using BrahMos missiles, inflicting significant damage on Bholari Airbase.
Recently, a retired Pakistani Air Marshal and Sindh's Chief Minister acknowledged the destruction of a crucial AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft and multiple personnel casualties during these attacks. Earlier admissions had Pakistan reporting 11 soldier deaths and 78 injuries. In a second statement, two ranger fatalities were conceded. Let’s explore this incident in simpler terms...
Also read: 15 missile strikes crippled Pakistan's system... Why couldn't Pakistan halt the BrahMos?
What transpired?
After the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, India initiated "Operation Sindoor" from May 6 to 10. This operation targeted 11 Pakistani airbases, including Noor Khan, Sargodha, and Bholari, with BrahMos missiles to weaken terrorist bases and Pakistan's air power. Bholari Airbase, located in Sindh's Jamshoro district, suffered significant damage on May 10.
Source: aajtak
What is an AWACS aircraft and why is it vital?
An AWACS aircraft serves as a flying radar system, monitoring enemy aircraft, missiles, and drones. It acts as the "eyes and ears" of the airforce, aiding in strategic planning during conflicts. The value and importance of one AWACS aircraft can surpass 15 fighter jets. Pakistan has only a few AWACS planes, mostly provided by China. The loss of an AWACS at Bholari is a major setback to the Pakistani airforce.
Statement from the retired Air Marshal
In an interview, Pakistan's retired Air Marshal Masood Akhtar confessed that a BrahMos missile strike at Bholari Airbase completely destroyed an AWACS plane. He detailed that India launched four BrahMos missiles, with the fourth striking the hanger housing the AWACS and a possible F-16 fighter jet. Satellite images confirm fires engulfing the open planes. This admission marks Pakistan’s largest acknowledgment of damage.
Also read: Suicide drones, radar systems, and target tracking... How India thwarted Pakistan and China in 23 minutes
Sindh's Chief Minister speaks out
Sindh's Chief Minister, Murad Ali Shah, confirmed the attack, revealing seven casualties, including six Pakistani airforce technicians. These technicians were responsible for aircraft and equipment maintenance, further crippling the airbase's functionality due to their loss.
Source: aajtak
Degree of damage to Bholari Airbase
According to satellite images and reports, a significant hangar at Bholari Airbase was destroyed, leaving a 60-foot-wide cavity. This hangar was essential for housing large aircraft like AWACS. Additionally, runway and infrastructure suffered damage, with an F-16 jet reportedly harmed by the blaze. Indian company KawaSpace and OSINT expert Damien Symons shared photos highlighting the destruction.
The role of BrahMos missile
BrahMos, a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia, travels three times faster than sound with exceptional precision. During Operation Sindoor, India launched BrahMos from Sukhoi-30 aircraft, eluding Pakistan's air defense. The attack on Bholari with four missiles exposed the frailties in Pakistan's defense systems.
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Why is this a significant admission?
Revealing Pakistan's vulnerabilities: The loss of an AWACS compromises Pakistani airforce's surveillance and strategy.
Showcasing India’s strength: BrahMos precision and military strategy put Pakistan under pressure, prompting the U.S. to mediate a ceasefire.
First-time acceptance: Previously, Pakistan downplayed the damage, but now even retired Air Marshal and Chief Minister statements have unveiled the truth.
What do experts say?
The Bholari Airbase hangar was designed for large aircraft like AWACS. Damage and fire visible in satellite imagery suggest not only AWACS, but possibly an F-16 was damaged. OSINT expert Damien Symons noted that the precision of the attacks indicates India’s choice of strategic targets.
Pakistan’s response and ceasefire
Pakistan claimed to have retaliated by attacking India’s Adampur and Pathankot airbases, but India denied these claims. On May 10, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire was established, although minor skirmishes continued in Jammu and Srinagar.
