IAF chief ACM AP Singh during annual press conference (Photo: X)
New Delhi: In an unexpected disclosure, the Indian Air Force has officially claimed shooting down both American-made F-16 and Chinese-made JF-17 fighter aircraft operated by the Pakistan Air Force during Operation Sindoor in May.
This marks the first time India has publicly specified the classes of enemy aircraft downed in combat operations, potentially ending years of speculation about aerial victories.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the 93rd Indian Air Force Day, the chief of air staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, detailed the extensive damage inflicted on Pakistani military infrastructure. “We have struck a large number of their airfields and installations. These strikes destroyed radars at four locations, command and control centres at two places, damaged runways at two airfields, and three hangars across three different stations,” ACM Singh said.
Elaborating on Pakistani aerial losses, Singh revealed: “We have evidence of one C-130 class aircraft and at least four to five fighter aircraft – most likely F-16s – that were under maintenance at that location. Additionally, one surface-to-air missile system has been destroyed."
The air chief further disclosed that India has “clear evidence” of one long-range strike beyond 300 kilometres, targeting either an airborne early warning and control aircraft or a signals intelligence platform, along with five advanced fighters of the F-16 and JF-17 classes. The F-16 Fighting Falcon, manufactured by the United States, and the JF-17 Thunder, co-developed by China and Pakistan, represent the backbone of Pakistan’s fighter fleet.
Countering Pakistani claims
Pakistan had earlier claimed to have shot down six Indian fighter jets, including French-origin Rafale aircraft, during Operation Sindoor. India has acknowledged losses but refuted the figure of six aircraft. “Their narrative is fabricated stories. Let them be happy – they also need to show something to their audience to save face. That doesn’t concern me,” ACM Singh remarked.
“If they think they shot down 15 of my jets, let them believe it. I hope they're convinced, and they will plan for 15 fewer aircraft in my inventory when they come to fight again. So why should I discuss it?” he added, dismissing Pakistan's assertions as psychological warfare.
Fleet modernization
Beyond the operational revelations, Singh addressed broader questions about the Indian Air Force’s modernization plans and the evolving nature of aerial warfare. Responding to assertions by Elon Musk that drones represent the future while manned aircraft are obsolete, the air chief offered a measured rebuttal.
“He’s a businessman who will naturally promote his interests. When it comes to warfighting, I don’t believe the next generation will see only drones. Manned platforms will remain essential,” Singh said. He emphasized that whilst unmanned systems will play an increasing role, they must operate in collaboration with manned aircraft or under human control.
ACM Singh also discussed several procurement and development programmes. Regarding the LCA (light combat aircraft) Mark 2, he described it as “an extension of Mark 1A – a bigger platform capable of carrying more weapons with improved range and endurance.”
On the S-400 air-defence system, which proved crucial during Operation Sindoor, Singh confirmed: “It has performed well, so there's a requirement for more. We also have our own systems under development, and we'll decide accordingly.”
Addressing Russia's proposal to co-produce the fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter in India, Singh indicated that all options remain on the table. “We have to weigh all options. Whether it's Rafale or something else doesn't really matter, but Rafale is easier to absorb. Whichever design house is ready to manufacture in India and provide technology transfer with greater freedom should be chosen,” he explained.
The air chief expressed confidence in the AMCA (advanced medium combat aircraft) programme, India’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter project. According to the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s timeline, the AMCA should conduct its first flight in 2028 and become operational by 2035. “This timeline can be achieved, or even bettered, if there's genuine commitment. The technology requirements are now fairly clear,” ACM Singh stated.
The Indian Air Force will celebrate its 93rd anniversary on October 8, with a parade at Hindon Air Force Station, followed by an air display in Guwahati on October 9.
