Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Thursday that Pakistan’s Air Force successfully shot down six Indian fighter jets—not five as earlier reported—during the recent conflict triggered by Indian missile strikes earlier this month.
Speaking at an event at the Pakistan Air Force’s Kamra Airbase in Attock, Punjab, the prime minister confirmed that the sixth aircraft, a Mirage-2000, was downed near Pampore east of Srinagar on the night of May 6–7. He called this a clear demonstration of the Pakistan Air Force’s combat skills and the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to defending the country at all costs.
Expressing national pride, PM Shehbaz emphasized that under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Pakistan’s military remains resolute in safeguarding the nation’s security and will respond firmly to any acts of aggression.
Recalling the Indian missile attacks on May 6–7, he condemned India for targeting innocent civilians, while praising Pakistan’s response for being precise and professional, focusing solely on military targets. He described Pakistan’s retaliation as a “befitting” answer that showcased the country’s technical superiority, particularly highlighting the Pakistan Air Force’s exceptional performance under Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu.
The prime minister also honored the martyrs of the operation and assured full government support for their families.
Addressing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement that “trade and terror cannot go together,” Shehbaz Sharif accused India of sponsoring terrorism in the region, citing attacks such as those on the Jaffar Express and Samjhauta Express, as well as India’s alleged role in the creation of Mukti Bahini during the 1971 conflict.
Warning India against further aggression, the prime minister called for peaceful dialogue to resolve long-standing issues, including Kashmir and water-sharing disputes.
During his visit to the airbase, PM Shehbaz was accompanied by senior military and government officials, receiving a detailed briefing on the Air Force’s operational readiness and engaging directly with pilots and technical personnel, praising their dedication and professionalism in defending Pakistan’s skies.
