Marking the 93rd anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh described Operation Sindoor as a defining moment in India’s recent military history, while reaffirming the country’s push towards modernising its air capabilities.
In his first media briefing since the May 7 operation, the Air Chief called the IAF-led strikes a decisive response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. “The operation began with a clear objective and was terminated quickly, without prolongation,” Singh said, contrasting India's approach with protracted global conflicts. “We are seeing what is happening in the world—the two wars that are going on—and there’s no talk of termination. But we reached a stage where Pakistan asked for a ceasefire. That is something the world needs to learn from us.”
According to Singh, Indian forces struck nine high-value targets, including terror camps and Pakistani airbases, with two being primary objectives. Pakistani F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets were reportedly neutralised during the operation, along with several UAV and missile threats intercepted by India’s air defence systems.
The IAF deployed newly inducted long-range surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), achieving a record engagement of over 300 kilometres. “It will go down in history as the longest kill we’ve achieved. It seriously curtailed their activities,” Singh said.
Highlighting the evolving strategic environment, the Air Chief revealed progress on the indigenous ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ system, an advanced platform aimed at bolstering India’s strike and defensive capabilities.
Singh also underscored the pressing need for modern fighter jets, stating, “Whether it is Rafale or Su-57, we need aircraft, and the government will acquire whatever is best.” He confirmed that additional S-400 systems are required to enhance India’s layered air defence, though specifics were withheld.
Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation to the deadly Pahalgam attack. India executed precision strikes deep inside Pakistani territory, amid intense cross-border shelling and aerial engagements.
