CNN, a U.S.-based news channel, has reported that Pakistan and India were involved in one of the longest aerial dogfights in recent military history, with around 125 fighter jets engaged in combat for over an hour.
According to CNN, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) stood firm against Indian aggression during the intense battle that took place between the night of May 6 and 7. The report highlights that both air forces engaged each other while remaining within their respective air spaces, and it acknowledges PAF’s effective defensive measures.
Pakistani officials claim that five Indian fighter jets were downed during the clash, with some being hit by long-range missiles from over 160 kilometres away. The U.S. media also noted that due to the 2019 incident—when an Indian jet was shot down and its pilot captured—India reportedly instructed its pilots to avoid crossing the border.
CNN further reported that Pakistani forces had preemptively evacuated civilians from potential target zones, minimising casualties. Despite this, more than 30 Pakistani civilians lost their lives and dozens were injured in Indian missile strikes on several cities.
In response, the Pakistan military launched immediate countermeasures, successfully shooting down five Indian aircraft, including modern Rafale jets.
