India’s Air Force chief, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, has reignited debate over the May 2025 air battle with Pakistan by claiming that the Indian Air Force (IAF) destroyed five Pakistani fighter jets, including JF-17s and F-16s.
His statement came 150 days after the conflict and has raised questions for avoiding India’s own reported losses.
Speaking at the Indian Air Force annual day press conference, the Air Force chief said, “We have evidence of one long-range strike. Along with that, five fighters, between F-16 and JF-17 class, were destroyed, according to our system.”
The remarks have triggered controversy, with Singh refusing to disclose how many Indian aircraft were lost. When pressed by reporters, he said only, “I will not respond.” He also demanded that Pakistan “show pictures” if Indian jets were downed.
Pakistan’s counterclaims and global reactions
During the conflict, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) claimed to have shot down seven Indian fighter jets, including Rafales and MiG-29s. The wreckage of Indian aircraft was widely circulated on social media, undermining India’s claims.
Pakistan’s position also received support from international leaders. Former US President Donald Trump stated that seven Indian jets had been destroyed, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif raised the issue at the United Nations as proof of PAF’s “decisive victory.”
India’s silence has drawn criticism from its own circles. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, and India’s Chief of Defense Staff Anil Chauhan have raised concerns over missing Rafale jets.
Evidence challenges India’s narrative
Images and videos of destroyed Indian aircraft, some carried on tractors, were broadcast globally. Pakistan also released additional evidence to support its version of events.
Despite this, the Indian Air Force chief has continued to stand by his remarks, sparking further debate over transparency and credibility in India’s official narrative.
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