Shares of Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of Rafale jets, plunged by 6% on Wednesday following the downing of five Indian aircraft by Pakistan amid rising tensions along the Line of Control (LoC).
Pakistan Downs Multiple Indian Aircraft
According to Pakistani defense officials, six Indian aerial assets were destroyed: three Rafale jets, one MiG-29, one SU-30, and a Heron surveillance drone. All were reportedly intercepted while attempting to strike Pakistani territory using stand-off weapons. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) said none of its aircraft sustained damage and all units returned safely to base.
Engagement Details Revealed
Officials stated that one Rafale and the SU-30 were brought down near Ahmedpur East, Bahawalpur. Another Rafale crashed near Awantipora, Pulwama—about 17 nautical miles from the LoC. The Heron drone was intercepted in a separate operation. These incidents reflect the PAF’s heightened readiness and capability to defend national airspace.
Read: India Claims Nine Terror Sites Targeted in ‘Operation Sindoor’
India Denies Claims
Indian media, citing unnamed sources, claimed that Pakistani jets were also downed in the exchange. Pakistan’s military officials dismissed these reports as “fabricated” and “aimed at shifting public attention.” A PAF spokesperson reaffirmed that no Pakistani aircraft was hit during the encounter.
Political Statements Amid Conflict
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar addressed the situation in a press conference. He reiterated Pakistan’s denial of involvement in the Pulwama attack and emphasized the country’s commitment to fighting terrorism. “India responded with force instead of investigating the Pahalgam incident. Yet, within hours, we responded decisively,” he said.
Tarar also questioned India’s internal handling of the Pulwama case, noting that an FIR was filed within 10 minutes, while security personnel took nearly an hour to arrive on site.
PAF Asserts Control
The Pakistan Air Force issued a strong warning to India, stating that any further acts of aggression would prompt a swift and proportionate response. “We are not looking for war,” said a PAF spokesperson, “but we are fully prepared to defend every inch of our airspace.”
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