In a dramatic escalation of tensions, India’s military successfully intercepted a series of missiles and drones launched by Pakistan on the night of May 8, 2025. The Pakistani assault primarily targeted military installations in Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur, coinciding with India's earlier strikes on Pakistani air defense systems, including a successful operation that neutralized one in Lahore.
The Indian armed forces initiated a counter-offensive after detecting the Pakistani attacks, which sought to hit Indian military facilities along the western and northern frontiers. As a precautionary measure, authorities imposed blackouts across more than 15 cities, including Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Bhuj, to ensure civilian safety.
According to the Ministry of Defence, there were no reported casualties or material losses from the Pakistani missiles, which were effectively neutralized using both kinetic and non-kinetic means. Kinetic options included the deployment of advanced missile systems, while non-kinetic measures involved jammers and anti-drone nets. Official sources confirmed that eight missiles aimed at key locations such as Satwari, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia were successfully intercepted by Indian air defense units.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) activated its Integrated Counter UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) Grid, utilizing sophisticated systems like the S400 Triumf, Barak 8 MRSAM, and indigenous Akash missiles to establish a robust air defense umbrella. Residents in Jammu reported seeing drones and missiles being intercepted, with loud explosions echoing through the night. The Jammu police advised citizens to “switch off all types of lights during the blackout period” and to “stay indoors at safe places.”
Reports indicated that heavy artillery fire from the Pakistani side was also noted in various border districts of Jammu, including Akhnoor, Rajouri, and Poonch. Srinagar's airport heightened its security alert, while the city itself experienced a blackout shortly before 10 PM, mirroring the situation in Jammu.
Blackouts were not limited to Jammu; cities in Punjab and Rajasthan also faced similar measures. In Punjab, districts such as Amritsar, Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran were instructed to enforce blackouts, while Mohali and neighboring Panchkula also saw restrictions. Rajasthan’s border districts, including Jaisalmer and Bikaner, reported sightings of what appeared to be drones or missiles in the sky, which were again intercepted by Indian air defense systems.
Indian authorities confirmed that Pakistani drones began entering Indian airspace around 9 PM, with successful interceptions reported by Border Security Force (BSF) officers. The BSF stated that the attacks were ongoing as late as 11 PM, prompting continued vigilance and response from Indian forces.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah was in contact with the Directors General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), BSF, and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) to assess the border situation. He instructed them to provide all necessary support to local police and administrations to handle potential contingencies. Shah also reached out to the head of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) for updates on airport security.
This military engagement follows a series of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after India targeted terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a deadly attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives on April 22, 2025. The events of May 8 mark a significant escalation, with India thwarting Pakistan’s attempt to target 15 cities across northern and western India.
As the situation unfolds, the Indian government remains on high alert, closely monitoring developments along the volatile border. The recent military actions underscore the ongoing conflict between the two nations and the persistent threat posed by cross-border terrorism.
In light of these events, local administrations have been proactive in ensuring public safety, with advisories for citizens to remain indoors and follow emergency protocols. The situation remains fluid, with military and political leaders assessing the next steps in response to the ongoing hostilities.
