Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply on the night of May 8, and into the early hours of May 9, 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 neutralised Pakistani drone and missile attacks targeting multiple military installations, including sites in Jammu and Pathankot on Thursday night. The Indian armed forces successfully thwarted similar attempts at 15 locations across the northern and western regions of the country, raising concerns about a potential escalation of conflict.
A press meet was organised on May 9, during the briefing, the defence secretary condemned Pakistan’s false allegations, calling them “preposterous and outrageous.” 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.” Wing Commander Vyomika Singh further elaborated on Pakistan’s provocative actions, highlighting that “Pakistan did not close its civil airspace despite launching a failed unprovoked drone and missile attack.” The press conference, convened in the wake of Pakistan’s cross-border drone and missile attacks targeting Indian military installations, also highlighted India’s decisive counter-offensive measures and exposed Pakistan’s misinformation campaign.
Pakistan’s Missile and Drone Attacks
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.
India’s Counter-Offensive
In response, Indian forces conducted retaliatory strikes targeting Pakistani military infrastructure, including air defense systems in Lahore. Reports indicate that Indian forces shot down Pakistani F-16 fighter jets and JF-17 Thunder jets that took off from the Sargodha air base. Indian military sources stated that over 50 Pakistani drones were shot down on Thursday night in districts of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab, including Udhampur, Samba, Jammu, Akhnoor, Nagrota, and Pathankot.
During a counter-drone operation, Indian Army Air Defence units successfully neutralised over 50 swarm drones attempting infiltration across the Line of Control (LoC) and International Borders (IB).
MEA Responds to Escalation
Amid the rising tensions, a senior MEA official expressed hope that the situation would not escalate further.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, addressing the media, stated, “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. Around 300 to 400 drones were used to attempt infiltration at 36 locations. The Indian armed forces shot down many of these drones using kinetic and non-kinetic means.”
“In response to Pakistan’s attack, drones were launched against four Pakistani military installations. One of these drones was able to destroy an AD (air defence) radar. Pakistan, however, used heavy artillery and drones to conduct attacks in Jammu and Kashmir’s Uri, Poonch, Rajouri, Akhnoor, etc., injuring some of the Indian soldiers,” she added.
‘Pakistan Forces Used Turkish Drones,’ said Col Sofiya Qureshi.
Addressing a press briefing on, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi revealed that 300 to 400 drones were deployed across 36 locations, with several being shot down by Indian forces using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods. Initial investigations suggest the drones were Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models.
She added, “The Indian armed forces shot down many of these drones using kinetic and non-kinetic means. The possible purpose of such large-scale aerial intrusions was to test air defence systems and collect intelligence. Forensic investigation of the wreckage of the drones is being done. Initial reports suggest that they are Turkish Asisguard Songar drones…”
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh highlighted India’s measured response, stating, “Pakistan did not close its civil airspace despite it launching a failed unprovoked drone and missile attack on 7 May at 08:30 hours in the evening. Pakistan is using civil airliner as a shield, knowing fully well that its attack on India would elicit a swift air defence response. This is not safe for the unsuspecting civil airliners, including the international flights that were flying near IB between India and Pakistan. The screenshot we just showed it shows the data of the application flight radar 24 during a high air defence alert situation in the Punjab sector. As you have seen, the airspace on the Indian side is absolutely devoid of civil air traffic due to our declared closure. However, there are civil airlines flying the air route between Karachi and Lahore…Indian Air force demonstrated considerable restraint in its response thus ensuring safety of international civil carriers,” Vyomika Singh said.
She added, “As you have seen, the airspace on the Indian side is absolutely devoid of civil air traffic due to our declared closure. However, there are civil airlines flying the air route between Karachi and Lahore. Indian Air Force demonstrated considerable restraint in its response, thus ensuring the safety of international civil carriers. In response to the Pakistani attack, armed drones were launched at four air defence sites in Pakistan. One of the drones was able to destroy an AD radar. Pakistan also carried out artillery shelling across the line of control using heavy-calibre artillery guns and armed drones…which resulted in some losses and injuries to Indian army personnel. Pakistan army also suffered major losses in Indian retaliatory fire.”
Foreign Secretary Misri condemned Pakistan’s actions, stating, “These provocative actions were targeted at Indian cities and civilian infrastructure in addition to military targets. The Indian Armed Forces responded adequately and responsibly. Pakistan’s denial of these attacks is an example of their duplicity.”
“We do have some information about this extremely regrettable and condemnable incident. During heavy shelling across the Line of Control in the early morning of 7th May, a shell fired from Pakistan landed just behind the Christ School run by the Kamalites of the Mary Immaculate Congregation in Poonch. Tragically, the shell fired from Pakistan hit the home of two students of the Christ School,” Misri says.
In light of the current situation, everyone is urged to strictly follow the government guidelines. Special attention should be given during blackout periods to prevent any untoward incidents. A warning has also been issued against posting misleading content on social media.
The MEA reiterated that India remains committed to peace and stability, but any attempts to compromise the country’s security will be met with strong countermeasures.
