On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir motivated India to launch 'Operation Sindoor' during the night of May 6-7, 2025. The Indian Army targeted terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). It resulted in substantial damage to Pakistan, delivering a significant blow. Let's delve into where and how much damage Pakistan suffered in 10 key points.
What was Operation Sindoor?
To provide some background, on April 22, 2025, terrorists killed 26 tourists in Pahalgam, including Hindus and a Nepali citizen. India held Pakistan-supported terrorist organizations, like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, responsible for the attack.
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In response, on the night of May 6-7, the Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes on 9 terrorist sites in Pakistan and PoK, dubbed 'Operation Sindoor.' Though the operation lasted just 23 minutes, its impact was significant and enduring.
Where and How Much Damage Did Pakistan Suffer? 10 Points
Terrorist Bases Destroyed
India demolished nine terrorist bases in Pakistan, including areas near Muridke, Bahawalpur, and Lahore. These sites housed training camps for Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Source: aajtak
Over 100 terrorists eliminated
During the operation, over 100 terrorists, including high-value targets such as Masood Azhar's relatives, were killed. These terrorists were involved in high-profile incidents like the IC-814 hijacking and Pulwama attack.
Damage to 11 Airbases
Eleven Pakistani airbases, including Nur Khan, Musaf, and Bholari, sustained severe damage. Runways and radar systems were targeted.
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Source: aajtak
Six Fighter Jets and AWACS Destroyed
Six Pakistani fighter jets and two AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) were demolished. A C-130 transport aircraft was also destroyed.
40 Civilian Casualties
Pakistan stated that 40 civilians (including 7 women and 15 children) perished. However, India claims these casualties occurred near terrorist sites. Investigations revealed mosques were being used as hiding spots by terrorists.
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11 Soldiers Casualties
The Pakistani military admitted to losing 11 soldiers (6 army, 5 air force), with 78 injured, in retaliatory actions.
Radar and Defense Systems Crippled
Radar systems in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Arifwala were destroyed, weakening Pakistan's aerial surveillance capabilities.
Economic Losses
The Karachi Stock Exchange suffered a 6,400-point decline, equating to a $2.85 billion loss, with an estimated daily shortfall of $3.2 million.
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Questions on Nuclear Sites
After activity was detected in Chagai Hills on May 10, concerns arose about potential damage to nuclear weapons at Nur Khan Airbase. While US aircraft conducted radiation checks, no conclusive evidence surfaced.
Damage to Morale and Infrastructure
The destruction of Pakistani airbases and camps broke its morale. Repair and restoration to normalcy could take years.
Source: aajtak
What Happened During the Operation?
The Indian Air Force initiated the operation at 1:05 AM, employing Rafale, Su-30 aircraft, and Sudarshan cruise missiles. India asserted that strikes targeted only terrorist sites, with no intent on civilian or military targets. However, Pakistan labeled it as an "act of war" and retaliated, prompting India to respond with S-400 and Harpy drones. A ceasefire was called on May 10, but the impact was long-lasting.
Pakistan’s Response and Effects
Pakistan claimed to have destroyed five Indian jets (three Rafales), which India denied. In its counterattack, it used drones and artillery, but India's S-400 system thwarted these efforts. Facing an economic crisis, Pakistan sought a $2.4 billion bailout from the IMF.
