India has categorically denied Pakistan’s claims of successfully targeting Indian military bases, asserting that all bases are fully functional and on high operational readiness.
The Indian Armed Forces also revealed critical evidence of foreign weaponry, including Chinese and Turkish-made drones and missiles, used by Pakistan during recent escalations.
Addressing the media, Air Vice Marshal AK Bharti, Director General Air Operations, stated that “all military bases remain operational and stand ready to undertake any future missions, should the need arise.”
His comments came in direct response to Pakistan’s assertions that it had carried out precision strikes on Indian airfields and logistics facilities.
As a strong counter, Indian military officials presented the debris of several weapon systems recovered after the confrontation, highlighting a concerning trend of imported warfare technologies:
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PL-15 air-to-air missile: Believed to be of Chinese origin, this advanced missile system was allegedly used by Pakistan in an attempt to target Indian assets.
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YIHA and Songar drones: Both of Turkish origin, these UAVs were intercepted and destroyed by Indian forces. Their deployment signals a shift towards asymmetric aerial tactics, involving unmanned platforms for reconnaissance and potential strikes.
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, Director General of Military Operations (DGMO), added a poignant commentary on the evolving nature of conflict:
“In recent years, the character of terrorism has changed. Innocent civilians are now being deliberately targeted… Yet, targeting our airfields and logistics remains too difficult for the adversary.”
In an unexpected yet metaphorically rich remark, Lt. Gen. Ghai referenced cricket legend Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket, before drawing a historic parallel with the 1970s Ashes series.
“There’s a saying from that era—Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, if Thommo don’t get ya, Lillee must. What I mean is—our defence is layered. Even if you cross one layer, another will get you.”
This layered grid defense, as per Indian military officials, is a multi-dimensional system comprising radar tracking, air defence units, and rapid response teams designed to intercept aerial threats at multiple levels.
Air Marshal Bharti further underlined the changing nature of modern warfare, calling the recent skirmish a “different kind of warfare.” He emphasized:
“God forbid, but if we face another war, it will not resemble the last. It will be a cat-and-mouse game, and our task is to stay ahead of the curve.”
Indian forces remain on heightened alert, especially in forward bases, with increased aerial surveillance and readiness drills continuing. The situation remains tense, though no escalation has been reported since the latest confrontation.
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The use of Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles and Turkish drones suggests international military cooperation or procurement by Pakistan, raising red flags for India’s defence establishment.
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The Indian military’s prompt interception and recovery of debris reinforces its claims of tactical and operational superiority.
With India asserting full operational capability and showcasing the downed foreign-origin equipment, the message is clear: Indian defence is resilient, prepared, and watching every move.
