By Bharat Global Time | June 1, 2025
In a moment of striking honesty, India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has confirmed what many were speculating—India did lose a few fighter jets during the early phase of Operation Sindoor, the cross-border offensive against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
But here’s the twist: No Rafales were lost. And according to General Chauhan, India adapted quickly—and struck back harder.
Operation Sindoor: High Stakes, High Risks
Operation Sindoor was launched in early May 2025 after a deadly terror attack in Kashmir sent shockwaves across the nation. India wasted no time. Jets took off, missiles locked on, and targets inside PoK were hit with surgical precision.
But in war, even precision comes with risk.
“Yes, we lost some aircraft,” General Chauhan said in a candid statement this week. “But not the number or types that Pakistan is falsely claiming.”
In fact, Pakistan’s military claimed they had shot down six Indian jets, including Rafales—India’s prized next-gen fighters.
“Absolutely incorrect,” said Chauhan.
Tactical Mistakes & Quick Corrections
While the Indian Air Force (IAF) did suffer losses, the CDS emphasized that what mattered more was how India bounced back.
The IAF analyzed its tactical setbacks within 48 hours, adjusted its mission strategy, and went on to carry out successful precision strikes on high-value enemy targets deep inside hostile territory.
“We regrouped, recalibrated, and returned stronger,” Chauhan noted. “This is what a modern, professional force does.”
Sources say the revised tactics involved electronic jamming, nighttime missions, and decoy operations—all of which led to critical hits on terror camps, ammo depots, and surveillance towers in Leepa Valley and surrounding regions.
Rafales Are Safe — But So Is Transparency?
The confirmation of any jet loss, especially during a sensitive military operation, is rare. But Chauhan’s forthrightness has earned both praise and political heat.
Opposition parties, especially Congress, have demanded a special parliamentary session, questioning the government’s silence on aircraft casualties and seeking clarity on India’s overall preparedness.
“We salute our forces. But the country deserves transparency,” said Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge.
Lessons From Losses
While politics plays out, one thing is clear: India’s defense establishment is taking notes, not just victories.
General Chauhan’s tone was not defensive but focused on learning. His message was simple:
- Yes, there were losses.
- No, Pakistan didn’t shoot down our Rafales.
- And yes, the Indian response was swift, calibrated, and effective.
Final Word
In the age of drone warfare, deepfakes, and viral military propaganda, truth is often the first casualty. But in this case, India’s top defense official chose to face it head-on.
The loss of jets—though painful—didn’t derail the mission. Instead, it reminded the world that India’s defense forces are not just strong, but smart and adaptive.
And in war, that’s what truly wins the battle
