In an exclusive interview with ANI on August 13, 2025, renowned Austrian military aviation analyst Tom Cooper lauded the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) successful engagement of Pakistani aircraft during Operation Sindoor as a “major tactical, operational, and strategic achievement.” Cooper’s remarks followed official confirmation by IAF Chief Air Marshal AP Singh that India had shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and one large aircraft approximately 300 kilometres inside enemy airspace.
“This confirmation validates what had been assessed since May,” Cooper said, highlighting the scale and precision of the operation. “We have seen evidence not only of the destruction of five aircraft in air combat but also additional Pakistani aircraft eliminated on the ground, though official Indian sources have been cautious in confirming the full extent.”
#WATCH | Austria: On IAF chief confirming 5 Pakistani Jets shot down by S-400 during Operation Sindoor, Tom Cooper, Military aviation analyst, says, “…We have seen evidence of not only fire, but even more Pakistani aircraft being shot down. We have seen evidence for even more… pic.twitter.com/aijHjlIXCl
— ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2025
The Austrian analyst described the use of the S-400 surface-to-air missile system as a “game-changer” for India’s air defence capabilities. He pointed out that the deployment of the S-400 battery near the Pakistan border, within range of Pakistani artillery, made the operation especially risky but showcased India’s strategic boldness.
“This is arguably the longest confirmed surface-to-air missile kill recorded, exceeding 300 kilometres,” Cooper explained, emphasising the technological and operational sophistication involved in Operation Sindoor.
The operation was launched in early May 2025 as a robust Indian military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the death of 26 civilians. Air Chief Marshal Singh termed the deployment of the S-400 system a “key deterrent” against future incursions by hostile aircraft.
Cooper also sharply criticised the United States for its inconsistent stance on Pakistan. “The U.S. seems to have a ‘memory of a fish’ when it comes to Pakistan’s deep involvement in terrorism and proliferation activities,” he said. “Washington’s recent flattering gestures towards Pakistan, especially during the Trump administration, ignore Islamabad’s notorious role in running a ‘jihad import-export business.’”
Operation Sindoor, which demonstrated India’s improved tactical reach and air defence readiness, has sent a strong message about the country’s resolve and military capability to neutralise threats from across its borders.
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