Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply on the night of May 8 and into the early hours of May 9, 2025, following a series of cross-border military engagements involving drones and missiles. In a press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that Indian forces had successfully neutralized Pakistani drone and missile attacks targeting multiple military installations, including sites in Jammu and Pathankot on Thursday night.
The Indian armed forces thwarted similar attempts at 15 locations across the northern and western regions of the country, raising concerns about a potential escalation of conflict. Colonel Sofiya Qureshi detailed the series of cross-border violations, stating, “On the night of May 7 and 8, the Pakistani army violated Indian airspace several times over the entire western border with the intention of targeting military infrastructure.”
Pakistan launched a series of missile and drone attacks targeting Indian military installations in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Explosions were reported in Jammu, including areas such as RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar, as well as in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer. Indian air defense systems, including the advanced S-400 missile system, successfully intercepted these threats, preventing casualties and damage to military assets. Sirens and explosions were also reported in Akhnoor, Samba, Baramulla, and Kupwara as Indian forces maintained an aerial vigil along the border.
In a significant escalation, the Indian military reported neutralizing multiple drone and missile threats aimed at key military installations. The first wave of Pakistan's drone and missile attack began late on May 7, 2025, just hours after Operation Sindoor—a precision strike that destroyed nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This operation did not target any rival military installations but was a direct response to the Pahalgam massacre where terrorists killed 26 people, mostly civilians.
Colonel Qureshi revealed that around 300 to 400 drones were used to attempt infiltration at 36 locations. The drones were identified as Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models, which are commonly deployed for surveillance and precision strikes. She added, “The possible purpose of such large-scale aerial intrusions was to test air defense systems and collect intelligence. Forensic investigation of the wreckage of the drones is being done.”
In response to the Pakistani attack, Indian forces launched armed drones that struck four Pakistani air defense sites, destroying at least one radar installation. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh highlighted the risks associated with Pakistan's actions, stating, “Pakistan did not close its civil airspace despite it launching a failed unprovoked drone and missile attack. This is not safe for the unsuspecting civil airliners, including the international flights that were flying near the International Border between India and Pakistan.”
During the heightened tensions, blackouts were reported in several cities and towns across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan—regions that have borne the brunt of cross-border incursions in recent days. The Indian government has urged local populations to stay vigilant as security forces remain on high alert.
The MEA condemned Pakistan’s actions, stating that the drone incursions were aimed at detecting the locations of India's aerial defense systems. The government also accused Pakistan of misusing civilian airspace as a shield, allowing the movement of civil airline flights while launching military operations. This, they argue, poses significant risks to international air traffic.
“It is for Pakistan to decide whether it wants to de-escalate,” said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a high-level briefing. He emphasized that India’s actions were a direct consequence of the Pahalgam massacre and warned against further provocations. The Indian government reiterated its commitment to peace and stability but made it clear that any attempts to compromise the country’s security would be met with strong countermeasures.
In light of the current situation, the Kartarpur corridor, which has allowed Indian Sikh pilgrims visa-free access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan since 2019, has been temporarily closed amid security concerns. The corridor's suspension reflects the heightened state of alert and the gravity of the ongoing military tensions.
As the situation continues to unfold, both nations remain on high alert, with military officials from both sides monitoring the borders closely. The potential for further escalation looms as each side prepares for the next move in this ongoing conflict.
