🇮🇳 India Lost Jets in Early Phase of May Conflict, But Tactical Errors Were Fixed: CDS General Chauhan

General Anil Chauhan (C), Chief of Defence Staff of Indian Armed Forces says , India lost fighter jets early in clash with Pakistan(AFP)

Published on: June 1, 2025 | 04:51 PM IST
By ITN National | Location: Singapore/New Delhi

India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan confirmed on Saturday that the Indian Air Force (IAF) suffered losses during the initial hours of last month’s military conflict with Pakistan, but emphasized that tactical errors were swiftly identified and corrected.

“What is important is not the jet being down, but why they were being downed,” said General Chauhan during an interview at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.
“The good part is that we were able to understand the tactical mistake, rectify it, and then implement the improved plan within two days.”

Although he declined to mention the exact number or type of jets lost — including whether any Rafale fighters were involved — Chauhan categorically dismissed Pakistan’s claim of downing six Indian jets as “absolutely incorrect.”

🔁 Strategic Recovery After Initial Setbacks

According to General Chauhan, the IAF adapted its strategy rapidly after suffering losses. After correcting the tactical missteps, Indian fighter jets resumed long-range precision strikes, showcasing the IAF’s ability to recalibrate and retaliate effectively.

The revised operations included coordinated attacks using SCALP missiles from Rafale jets and BrahMos missiles launched from Su-30MKI aircraft, targeting key enemy assets.

🛑 “Losses Are a Part of Combat”: Air Marshal Bharti

Air Marshal AK Bharti, Director General Air Operations, addressed similar concerns during a press briefing on May 11, reaffirming that in any active combat scenario, losses are inevitable.

“We are in a combat scenario; losses are a part of combat,” said Bharti.
“The question you must ask is whether we achieved our objective of decimating terrorist camps — and the answer is a thumping yes.”

He further confirmed that all Indian pilots involved had returned safely, but declined to share details on the number or types of jets lost.

“I won’t comment on what could have been, how many numbers, or which platform was lost,” he stated.

🎯 Operation Sindoor: Precision Strikes on Terror Camps

The May 7–10 confrontation, triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack, led to Operation Sindoor, India’s focused counterstrike against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to defence officials:

• 9 terrorist camps were destroyed

• 13 Pakistani airbases and military installations were hit

• The IAF used a mix of jets, drones, long-range missiles, and artillery

The operation marked one of India’s most intense aerial campaigns since Balakot, and officials claim it significantly degraded Pakistan’s terror launchpads and logistical support chains.

📝 Final Take

Despite early losses in the air campaign, the Indian military quickly adapted to changing battlefield dynamics. The strategic agility of the Indian Air Force, coupled with high-precision weaponry, allowed India to turn the tide of the brief but intense confrontation.

India’s clear message — echoed by both political and military leadership — remains firm: Terror will be met with decisive force, and every sacrifice will strengthen the nation’s resolve.

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