Bengaluru: Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh revealed that the Indian Air Force’s recent “Operation Sindhoor” resulted in the destruction of ten Pakistani combat aircraft, including five F‑16s and five JF‑17 fighter jets. Several Pakistani airbases also suffered significant damage during the operation. Speaking at a recent event, Singh detailed the success of the strikes and the strategic planning behind the operation.
Singh highlighted that five aircraft were destroyed mid-air, including a large surveillance plane taken down from a distance of approximately 300 kilometres—an unprecedented feat in aerial warfare. In addition, four aircraft were destroyed on the ground during targeted strikes on hangars at Shabaz Jacobabad Airfield and Bolari aviation facilities, showcasing the operation’s extensive reach and precision.
IAF Chief AP Singh makes big statememt on Operation Sindoor:
"India neutralised 9–10 Pakistani fighter jets"
"5 high-tech fighters shot down in air"
"Destroyed 4-5 F16s on ground during maintenance"
"Radars & command & control centers destroyed"
"Longest SAM… pic.twitter.com/BVdULZEmTK
— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) October 3, 2025
The Air Chief credited the recently acquired S‑400 air-defence system for playing a crucial role, restricting Pakistani aircraft from deploying weapons and granting India air superiority. He also emphasized that political leadership’s full support for counter-terror operations was a key factor in the mission’s success. The severity of the strikes reportedly led Pakistan to request a ceasefire, acknowledging that continued confrontation would result in further losses.