In May 2025, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh revealed groundbreaking details about Operation Sindoor against Pakistan. He explained how the Indian Air Force's valor compelled Pakistan to seek a ceasefire, with five Pakistani fighter jets and an aircraft taken down by the S-400 Air Defense System. 'What couldn't be achieved during Balakot was accomplished this time,' he emphasized.
Addressing the 16th edition of the L.M. Katre Memorial Lecture in Bengaluru, Singh shared insights into Operation Sindoor.
He stated that the world witnessed the decisive action of the Indian military during Operation Sindoor, presenting irrefutable evidence of the substantial damage inflicted on Pakistan. 'The ghost of Balakot has been laid to rest permanently,' he declared.
Source: aajtak
These revelations by the Air Chief Marshal come at a time when opposition parties, including Congress, are demanding clarity from the Central Government on the operation. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi recently criticized the operation, citing that pilots were restrained from neutralizing Pakistan's air defense system, akin to having 'their hands tied.'
Several opposition members have questioned the number of terrorists neutralized during the operation, alleging that political directives restricted the military's actions.
Singh noted that during the Balakot strike, the lack of tangible evidence hindered public assurance of success. 'This time, there's pride in showcasing the might of the Indian Air Force to the world,' he said.
Read more:
The operation spanned nearly 80 to 90 hours, inflicting significant damage to Pakistan, which led them to propose a ceasefire through the DGMO, a proposal India accepted.
Singh supported the government's decision to cease hostilities once objectives were achieved, stating, 'When victory is secured, we seek peace.' He questioned the necessity of perpetual warfare, 'Do we always strive to stay in conflict?' he asked.
The Indian military launched this multi-force operation on May 6-7 in response to the Pahalgam attack, targeting nine terrorist positions in Pakistan and PoJK. A ceasefire was declared on May 10, following Pakistan's request.
