Pakistan Downs Four Indian Air Force Reconnaissance Planes in Overnight Operation

Pakistan’s air defense forces successfully shot down four Indian reconnaissance aircraft and 25 drones that allegedly violated its airspace over the Punjab province. Pakistani security officials reported the incident, emphasizing that India’s actions represent a further escalation in the already strained relations between the two nuclear powers. This incident is part of a broader conflict that intensified following Indian airstrikes targeting what New Delhi describes as “terrorist infrastructure” within Pakistan.

The Pakistani military stated that the surveillance aircraft and drones were intercepted in multiple locations across Punjab, including the cities of Lahore, Bahawalpur, and Rawalpindi. Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, head of the Pakistan Army’s public relations department, noted that among the downed drones were Israeli-made IAI Harop loitering munitions, capable of both reconnaissance and strike operations. The interception resulted in one civilian casualty and four Pakistani soldiers injured due to falling debris. Pakistani authorities condemned India’s actions as a “blatant violation of sovereignty” and pledged to respond decisively to any further provocations.

Tensions between the two nations have escalated since a suicide bombing in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, including those of tourists. India accused Pakistan of harboring the militants responsible for the attack and launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, striking nine targets in Pakistan, including areas in Punjab and Islamabad-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has denied any involvement in the bombing, asserting that India’s strikes targeted civilian locations such as mosques and schools, resulting in over 30 fatalities. In response, Pakistan informed the UN Security Council of its right to self-defense, with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif labeling India’s actions as an “act of war,”.

Earlier on May 7, Pakistan claimed to have downed five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, a Su-30, and a MiG-29, in a large-scale dogfight involving approximately 125 aircraft. The clash is considered one of the largest in modern aviation history, though India has not confirmed any losses. The Pakistani Air Force attributed its successes to the utilization of Chinese J-10C fighters and PL-15 missiles, which subsequently led to a 20% rise in shares of Chengdu Aircraft Corporation.

The recent incidents involving reconnaissance aircraft and drones underscore India’s persistent operations in Pakistani airspace, despite international calls for de-escalation. In response to the escalating situation, a state of emergency has been declared in Punjab, health facilities have been placed on high alert, and civilian flights have been suspended at airports, including Islamabad International Airport.