Pakistan fighter jet losses to India’s ‘longest kill’: Key takeaways of IAF Chief’s annual presser

Indian Air Force Chief Air Marshal AP Singh addressed the media on Friday. This was the first such presser since the Operation Sindoor strikes, where the IAF played a key role. During the presser, the Air marshal spoke about how India destroyed Pakistan’s military plane. The IAF chief said that more than 10 planes were destroyed, which include around five F-16s. here are the key takeaways from the press conference:

Pakistan's Fighter Jet Losses

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh revealed that during Operation Sindoor, India destroyed at least 4-5 high-tech Pakistani fighter jets, most likely F-16s and JF-17s, with some aircraft targeted while on the ground. In addition, an AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) or SIGINT aircraft and a C-130-class plane were also likely neutralized.

Damage to Pakistani Military Infrastructure

The strikes caused significant damage to Pakistani military infrastructure, including radars at four locations, command and control centres at two places, runways at two airbases, three hangars across different stations, and one surface-to-air missile system, severely curbing Pakistan's ability to operate within its own territory.

India's Long-Range Strike Capability

The operation showcased India's long-range strike capabilities, including the longest successful missile strike in the country's history at over 300 km, conducted with precision using advanced long-range SAMs and counter-UAV systems.

Dismissing Pakistan's Claims

Singh emphasised that Pakistan's repeated claims of downing Indian jets were without evidence and dismissed them as "Manohar Kahaniya" (interesting stories), challenging Pakistan to provide proof. He pointed out that India had publicly released evidence of its strikes, whereas Pakistan could show none.

Clear Objectives & Quick Termination

Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, and ended on May 10 after India achieved its objectives. Singh highlighted that the operation demonstrated a clear directive, precise objectives, and quick termination of hostilities, serving as a lesson for the world on how wars can be fought efficiently without prolonging conflict.

Tri-Services Synergy

The operation underscored the tri-services synergy, reflecting effective coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Future Roadmap & Air Defence

Looking ahead, the IAF has drawn up a "Roadmap 2047" to enhance combat capabilities. Work has also begun on Mission Sudarshan Chakra, India's indigenous air defence system similar to Israel's Iron Dome, while the S-400 system was confirmed to be effective, though no new procurement plans were disclosed.