Daijiworld Media Network - News Delhi
New Delhi, May 10: India launched precision retaliatory strikes on Pakistani military installations as part of “Operation Sindoor,” following Pakistan’s cross-border attacks on Indian military positions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan late May 8 night.
Addressing the media in a high-level press briefing on Saturday, May 10, Indian officials confirmed that the Armed Forces had carried out coordinated strikes targeting Pakistani air defense systems in Lahore and neutralised multiple threats from drones and missiles launched from across the border.
The Ministry of External Affairs categorically rejected Pakistan’s claims of having shot down an Indian S-400 missile system, calling the allegation “completely false and baseless.” “These are deliberate distortions meant to cover up Pakistan’s military failures,” said Vikram Misri, deputy national security advisor.
Indian forces confirmed they had successfully intercepted incoming missiles and drones targeting key installations in RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, Hiranagar, and Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer. The Indian Air Defence, including the S-400 system, played a key role in averting major damage or casualties.
According to official sources, the Indian Air Force downed Pakistani F-16 and JF-17 Thunder jets that had taken off from the Sargodha air base. Pakistani military bases in Lahore, including air defense units, were among the key targets of India's retaliatory action. India also destroyed over 50 Pakistani drones attempting infiltration and sabotage.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, speaking at the press briefing, said Pakistan used drones, loitering munitions, long-range weapons, and fighter aircraft to carry out coordinated strikes, including attacks on Indian air bases in Udhampur, Bhuj, Pathankot, Bathinda, and Sirsa. “They even targeted civilian infrastructure like health facilities and schools,” she added.
Col Qureshi further revealed that Pakistan attempted to shield its jets by flying them alongside civilian aircraft, a tactic in violation of international war conventions.
Amid the ongoing developments, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held high-level meetings with the tri-services chiefs, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also reviewed the situation at South Block.
In a significant operation, the Border Security Force (BSF) confirmed the destruction of a terrorist launch pad in Looni, Sialkot, in Pakistan. Indian security forces remain on high alert as tensions escalate along the western front.
The situation remains dynamic with enhanced troop mobilisation along the Line of Control (LoC), especially in sectors like Baramulla, Akhnoor, and Poonch, where Pakistan has initiated heavy shelling.
India, while retaliating firmly, has maintained that it is exercising restraint and targeting only military assets in response to Pakistan’s aggression.