Indian Air Force Confirms Precision Strikes During Operation Sindoor, Urges Caution on Unverified Reports
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday formally acknowledged its key role in Operation Sindoor, stating that it has executed its designated missions with “precision, professionalism, and in complete alignment with national strategic objectives.”
The operation, which was launched in the early hours of May 7, came in direct response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians.
According to the IAF, the operation’s primary goal was to neutralize major terrorist infrastructure located in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Initially targeting seven significant terror facilities, the scope of the operation quickly broadened, with all subsequent retaliatory actions against Pakistani provocations also falling under the umbrella of Operation Sindoor.
In a public statement, the IAF emphasized that the operation is still underway, indicating the dynamic and ongoing nature of India’s counter-terror strategy. Since the operations are still ongoing, a detailed briefing will be conducted in due course.
The IAF urges all to refrain from speculation and dissemination of unverified information,” the statement read, urging the public and media to avoid conjecture during this sensitive period.
The strikes were described as deliberate and discreet, with a clear focus on aligning military execution with broader national interests.
The Indian Air Force maintained that every action was carried out with maximum precision to ensure success while minimizing unintended consequences.
Despite India and Pakistan announcing an agreement on Saturday to immediately cease all forms of military hostilities—whether on land, in the air, or at sea—the situation deteriorated again within hours. According to Indian authorities, Pakistan violated the ceasefire understanding, prompting renewed responses from Indian forces.
At a televised briefing late on Saturday night, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the sudden breakdown of the agreement.
“For the last few hours, there have been repeated violations of the understanding arrived at earlier this evening,” he stated.
“The armed forces are giving an adequate and appropriate response to these violations. We call upon Pakistan to take appropriate steps to address these violations and deal with the situation with seriousness and responsibility.”
The Indian military’s precision air strikes under Operation Sindoor specifically targeted nine high-value terror locations, causing significant structural and strategic damage. Among the major Pakistani military installations hit were:
- Rafiqui Air Base (Shorkot, Jhang district)
- Murid Air Base (Chakwal)
- Nur Khan Air Base (Chaklala, near Rawalpindi, close to Pakistan’s capital, Islamabadd)
- Rahim Yar Khan
- Sukkur Air Base
- Chunian Military Facility (Kasur district)
In addition to these, severe damage was reportedly inflicted on key air bases in Skardu, Bholari, Jacobabad, and Sargodha—sites known for housing advanced aircraft, missile systems, and critical logistical infrastructure.
These facilities were believed to play roles in both conventional defense and support for militant networks.
Notably, among those killed in the air strikes were at least 10 family members of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, as well as four of his close operational aides.
The elimination of these figures marks a significant blow to one of the most notorious terror outfits operating in the region.
Operation Sindoor, which was launched following the brutal Pahalgam attack, is being viewed not merely as a military initiative but as a strategic shift in India’s counter-terrorism doctrine, demonstrating a clear willingness to carry the battle across the border when national security is threatened.
The IAF’s ongoing involvement underscores India’s resolve to protect its citizens while sending a strong message to hostile elements operating across the border.
As the situation continues to evolve, the armed forces remain on high alert, prepared to respond to any further acts of aggression.