On May 7, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched a bold and strategic airstrike deep into Pakistani territory as part of Operation Sindoor, a direct response to the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed 26 Hindu pilgrims just weeks earlier. India didn’t just retaliate with this military operation—it showcased its upgraded aerial capabilities and precision warfare. What made this operation especially effective was the selection of some of India’s most advanced fighter jets, working in perfect coordination to ensure maximum damage to terror camps while avoiding civilian casualties.
Why the Strike Was Ordered
A deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, prompted the operation sindoor. Pakistan-backed terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) reportedly carried out the assault, which killed 26 Indian civilians. India had already warned Pakistan about hosting terrorist infrastructure and made it clear that any further provocations would trigger a strong and decisive military response. The Pahalgam attack proved to be the final straw, leading the Indian government to authorize the Indian Air Force to act.
Operation Sindoor: India’s Air Assault
The Indian Air Force struck nine identified terror targets spread across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), including high-value locations in Bahawalpur, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Bagh, and Bhimber. These places were believed to be housing active terror launchpads, training centers, and arms dumps used by JeM and LeT.
To ensure a successful mission, the IAF deployed a well-structured fleet of fighter jets and support aircraft. Here’s how each aircraft played a critical role:
1. Dassault Rafale – The Spearhead of the Mission
At the core of the airstrike was the French-made Dassault Rafale, India’s most modern multi-role fighter jet. Rafale jets led the mission and launched the main air-to-ground attacks using SCALP cruise missiles, which boast a range of over 500 kilometers and are renowned for their precision. The pilots used these missiles to strike high-value terror hideouts, command centers, and underground bunkers.
Rafales also used AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs, which allowed them to hit targets with extreme accuracy, even in adverse weather or mountainous terrain like PoK. Their stealth capabilities helped them fly undetected deep into Pakistani airspace.
2. Sukhoi Su-30MKI – The Shield and Muscle
Flying alongside Rafales were the twin-engine Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters. These jets were not only armed with air-to-air missiles but also played a critical role in electronic warfare and target jamming. The Su-30s covered Rafales and kept an eye out for any Pakistani aerial retaliation.
In case Pakistani jets tried to intercept the Rafales, the Su-30MKIs were prepared to neutralize the threat. Their long endurance and agility made them ideal escorts and support fighters in this mission.
3. MiG-29 UPG – The Air Superiority Guardians
The upgraded MiG-29 jets of the IAF were also kept on high alert and patrolled Indian airspace near the border. Though they didn’t cross into enemy territory, they served as backup and were ready to engage Pakistani jets if required. Their role was crucial in maintaining air superiority over the conflict zone.
The MiG-29s are extremely fast and agile and are often considered India’s first line of defense against enemy aircraft. Their presence ensured no surprise attack from Pakistan during the operation.
4. IAI Heron UAVs – The Silent Eyes
While manned fighter jets carried out the strikes, Israeli-made Heron drones silently watched from above. These UAVs provided real-time surveillance, target confirmation, and battle damage assessment. Live feeds from Heron drones helped Indian command centers guide the fighters and confirm target destruction without the need for ground troops.
5. Netra AEW&C – The Eye in the Sky
India also used its Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) aircraft to monitor Pakistani radar activity and guide its jets through the safest possible route. Netra helped in identifying enemy aircraft and radar signatures, reducing the chances of being intercepted mid-air.
Pakistan’s Reaction and Claims
Soon after the operation, Pakistan scrambled its JF-17 Thunder and F-16 Fighting Falcons to intercept Indian jets. However, reports indicate that Indian aircraft had already completed their mission and returned to base before any engagement took place. Pakistan claimed it shot down several Indian aircraft, including Rafales and Su-30s, but India strongly denied these claims, stating all aircraft returned safely.
International Response
The global community, including the United Nations, United States, Russia, and France, called for restraint and encouraged both nations to engage in diplomatic talks. However, many nations acknowledged India’s right to self-defense, especially in light of growing terrorist threats from across the border.
Final Thoughts
Operation Sindoor has proven to be a landmark moment in modern Indian military history. The carefully coordinated use of advanced fighter jets like Rafale, Su-30MKI, and MiG-29, combined with drone surveillance and electronic warfare support, shows just how far the Indian Air Force has come in executing complex missions with surgical precision. Beyond the political implications, the mission sends a clear message: India will not tolerate terror, and it now has the power, technology, and resolve to act decisively when provoked.
