During the Operation Sindoor briefing on Monday, Indian military showed the debris of a Chinese-origin PL-15 air-to-air missile, used by Pakistan during the attack on India.
The PL-15E first debuted in combat on 7 May 2025, during the 2025 India–Pakistan strikes. Debris of PL-15E missiles fell in various areas of India during the conflict, which was captured by the Indian Armed Forces. A relatively intact rear section was found in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, India.
What is PL-15?
PL-15 is a radar-guided air-to-air missile developed by the China. It is used by the country's air force. The Pakistan Air Force also uses the weapon.
The PL-15E features a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, enabling speeds exceeding Mach 4 and a maximum range of approximately 145 km. It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar seeker, providing robust resistance to electronic countermeasures and enhanced target tracking capabilities.
The missile also incorporates a two-way datalink for mid-course guidance updates. Pakistan has integrated the PL-15E into its JF-17 Block III and J-10C fighter jets, significantly enhancing its air-to-air combat capabilities.
The length of the missile is 4 metres, and its diameter is 200 millimetres.
Along with the Chinese-origin missile, the Indian Military also showed the wreckage of Turkish-origin YIHA and Songar drones that were shot down by India.
Pakistan used Turkish-made armed drones, most of which was thwarted by the Indian Armed forces using the S-400 air defence systems, Akash surface-to-air-missiles, and anti drone technologies.
What are Songar Drones?
The SONGAR drone is a Turkish-made, armed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed and manufactured by Asisguard. It is Turkey's first indigenous armed drone system and has been in service with the Turkish Armed Forces since 2020.
The SONGAR is known for its compact design, tactical flexibility, and ability to be used for both internal security and international military operations.
Byker YIHA III Kamikaze Drones
The Byker YIHA III is a type of kamikaze drone, also known as a loitering munition. These drones are launched from the ground, can fly autonomously or be manually steered, and carry small warheads for targeting and destruction. They are characterized by their ability to locate targets and remain airborne for extended periods.
Fragments and debris of YIHA III Kamikaze drones were also recovered after they were shot down.
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