On Thursday, May 8, 2025, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated dramatically as a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) F-16 fighter jet was reportedly shot down by an Indian surface-to-air missile defense system. The incident occurred shortly after the F-16 took off from Pakistan's Sargodha air base, marking a significant development in the ongoing hostilities along the border.
Sources indicate that the Indian missile defense system engaged and neutralized the aircraft in the vicinity of the Sargodha air base, a location with historical significance in past conflicts between the two nations. Earlier on the same day, Pakistan attempted to target Jammu with drones and missiles, an effort that was reportedly thwarted by Indian defenses.
Areas in Jammu, including RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar, have been subjected to intense artillery shelling, with the impact reaching as far as Pathankot in Punjab, located approximately 30 kilometers from the international border. Pathankot has come under heavy artillery fire originating from Pakistan, highlighting the escalating violence in the region.
The F-16s involved in this incident were delivered to Pakistan in the late 1980s and have undergone several upgrades over the years. These aircraft have played a vital role in the PAF fleet, notably being deployed during the aerial confrontations following India’s Balakot air strikes in 2019. During that engagement, a MiG-21 piloted by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shot down a Pakistani F-16, marking the first aerial dogfight between the two countries in over four decades.
This latest escalation is reminiscent of the hostilities not seen since the 1971 conflict, raising concerns about regional stability. In response to the heightened tensions, a blackout has been imposed in several areas of Rajasthan bordering Pakistan, and sirens have been heard in various districts, signaling the seriousness of the situation.
The Sargodha air base has a historical context, having been targeted by Indian aircraft during the 1965 war. It was home to American F-104 Starfighter jets at that time, showcasing the long-standing military rivalry between India and Pakistan.
As the situation unfolded, reports emerged of Pakistan directing missile attacks at Jammu civil airport and surrounding areas, including Samba and RS Pura. Many of these missiles were intercepted by the Indian air defense system, preventing further damage.
In a broader context, Chinese defense stocks surged on the same day, with some shares rising as much as 20%. The increase in stock value for companies like AVIC Chengdu Aircraft, which manufactures fighter jets used by Pakistan, reflects the heightened military activity in the region. AVIC Chengdu Aircraft shares rose 20% after a significant two-day rally, gaining 36% since India’s Operation Sindoor.
Operation Sindoor, launched by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, aimed at destroying nine terror camps operating in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Ministry of Defence stated that precision strikes were executed on terror-linked locations, emphasizing India’s commitment to counter-terrorism efforts.
During a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that the Pahalgam attack was the “original escalation” by Pakistan, asserting that India’s response was measured and controlled. Misri emphasized that any further escalation would be met with appropriate responses from India.
As the conflict intensified, reports surfaced regarding Pakistan’s attempts to engage military targets in Northern and Western India using drones and missiles. However, these attempts were successfully foiled by Indian armed forces, which have been on high alert amid the ongoing situation.
Meanwhile, China distanced itself from the confrontation, with a spokesperson stating they were “not familiar with the matter” regarding the use of Chinese-origin fighter jets in Pakistan’s response. China reiterated its stance for both nations to exercise restraint, urging them to prioritize peace and stability in the region.
In the midst of these developments, India’s air defense systems have been actively engaging Pakistani drones, successfully shooting down several threats. Reports indicate that two JF-17 fighter aircraft belonging to Pakistan were also downed by Indian forces, further escalating the military confrontation.
The Indian Embassy in Beijing has firmly rejected claims made by Chinese state-run media regarding Indian losses during the operations, labeling them as “baseless.” The embassy emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and accurate reporting amidst such sensitive military operations.
As the day progressed, a complete blackout was enforced in Jammu and other areas, with sirens blaring throughout the region. Airports in Srinagar, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and several other cities were closed as a precautionary measure due to the ongoing hostilities. Reports of explosions and missile interceptions have become increasingly common, illustrating the volatile situation on the ground.
The situation remains fluid, with both nations on high alert and military operations ongoing. The international community is closely monitoring developments, as the potential for further escalation looms large over the region. The recent events underline the fragility of peace between India and Pakistan and the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent a further deterioration of relations.
As India and Pakistan navigate this precarious moment, the implications of these military actions extend beyond their borders, affecting regional stability and international relations. The world watches closely as both nations grapple with the consequences of their actions amid a backdrop of historical tension and conflict.
