**IAF Chief Amar Preet Singh Hails Success of Operation Sindoor, Details Strikes on Pakistani Targets**
*New Delhi:* Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh on Friday (October 3) lauded the Indian Armed Forces for their successful execution of Operation Sindoor. Speaking at a press conference commemorating the 93rd anniversary of the IAF, the Chief highlighted the significant damage inflicted on Pakistan’s military infrastructure during the operation.
According to Air Chief Marshal Singh, Indian forces shot down several Pakistani fighter jets, including US-made F-16s and Chinese J-17s. He revealed that the IAF specifically targeted multiple Pakistani airbases, damaging radars, command centres, runways, hangars, and even a surface-to-air missile (SAM) system.
“We have struck a large number of their airfields and installations,” he stated. “Because of these strikes, radars at at least four locations, command and control centres at two locations, and runways at two sites were damaged. Three hangars across different stations were also hit.”
The IAF Chief further mentioned evidence of a destroyed C-130-class aircraft and possibly a high-value surveillance aircraft during the operation. “We have signs of one C-130-class aircraft and at least 4 to 5 fighter aircraft, most likely F-16s, as that particular base housed F-16s and those under maintenance at the time,” he added.
Highlighting the long-range capability demonstrated during the operation, Singh confirmed India achieved a strike over 300 km inside enemy territory. He said, “We have clear evidence of one long-range strike exceeding 300 km, which targeted either an AEW&C or another significant aircraft. Alongside this, five high-tech fighters, likely between F-16 and JF-17 class, were engaged.”
He also noted that one surface-to-air missile system was destroyed during the mission, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the strikes.
India launched Operation Sindoor on the night of May 6-7, targeting and destroying nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. Following Pakistan’s attempts to use drones to target Indian cities, the Indian Armed Forces responded by striking 11 Pakistani airbases, inflicting heavy damage.
The operation ultimately compelled Pakistan to seek a ceasefire. Air Chief Marshal Singh reiterated that India acted as a mature nation in responding to Islamabad’s request. “When Pakistan approached us for a ceasefire, India decided to end hostilities as our objectives had been fully met,” he said.
Reflecting on the swift conclusion of the conflict, Singh remarked, “This was a war started with a very clear objective and terminated quickly without prolonging. In contrast, ongoing global conflicts continue indefinitely. We demonstrated how to achieve goals decisively and then work towards cessation of hostilities.”
The IAF Chief further praised the Indian Armed Forces for their coordinated effort. “We proved that we are ‘Achook’ (infallible), ‘Abhedya’ (impenetrable), and ‘Sateek’ (accurate) during Operation Sindoor. All three services planned and executed this mission impeccably.”
Significantly, Singh noted that the long-range surface-to-air missile intercepted targets deep inside enemy territory, marking the longest kill of over 300 km in history by Indian forces.
On May 10, following the sustained air operations, Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) formally requested a ceasefire with his Indian counterpart, bringing an end to this phase of hostilities.
Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India’s strategic planning, precision strike capability, and discipline in escalating and de-escalating conflict in a controlled manner. The Indian Armed Forces’ swift and effective response highlights their preparedness and commitment to national security.
—
*For more updates on defense and national security, stay tuned.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/india-destroyed-pakistans-f-16-j-17-fighter-jets-during-operation-sindoor-iaf-chiefs-big-revelation