Washington, May 7: India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’ commenced following the tragic terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 innocent tourists. This operation marked a significant shift, leading to a steady decline in the capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force.
According to reports, India achieved air superiority over key Pakistani airbases and conducted precise strikes deep within Pakistan.
John Spencer, Executive Director of the Urban Warfare Institute, writing on the U.S.-based platform Substack, noted that even a year after the operation began on May 7, 2025, several claims persist. Early reports suggested that Indian aircraft were downed and that Pakistan had achieved significant success.
Spencer pointed out that in conflicts between India and Pakistan, it is common for Pakistan to quickly make exaggerated claims, shaping narratives in international media.
During the initial 88-hour air campaign from May 7 to May 10, 2025, reports emphasized Indian aircraft losses, with many Western media outlets portraying significant Pakistani successes. However, these narratives were later proven inaccurate.
He referenced a report released on January 15 by the Centre d’Histoire et de Prospectives Militaires in Switzerland, which analyzed the conflict based on operational data rather than initial claims.
Written by military historian Adrian Fontanellez and reviewed by a panel led by retired Swiss Air Force Major General Claude Meyer, the report indicated that the events during the four-day battle unfolded quite differently than initial reports suggested. It stated that early reports of aircraft losses were only a fraction of the reality, as the entire operation was much larger in scope.
Ultimately, the Pakistan Air Force weakened, and India gained air superiority over significant portions of Pakistan, executing precise strikes deep within the country.
Spencer also mentioned that in response to the April 22 terrorist attack, India targeted nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7.
While Pakistan responded quickly, the Indian Air Force soon gained control of crucial areas, and Pakistan’s position weakened steadily after the first night.
According to him, this outcome was not the result of a single attack but rather a planned operation that unfolded over several days, gradually degrading the enemy’s air defense systems. This significantly impacted Pakistan’s surveillance, coordination, and response capabilities.
The expert noted that this analysis provides India with a form of international validation that the Indian government typically does not openly discuss. He stated that the objectives of the operation were not only met but possibly exceeded expectations.
In conclusion, Spencer remarked that the debate continues regarding whether India should have extended the campaign beyond 88 hours, but it is clear that Pakistan accepted a ceasefire because it was not in a position to continue fighting.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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