New Delhi: In a major security operation, India successfully repelled a large-scale drone incursion attempt by Pakistan along the western border, thwarting infiltration at 36 locations from Leh to Sir Creek late last night. Approximately 400 drones, reportedly Turkish-made Asisguard Songar UAVs, were deployed in a provocative attempt by Pakistan, according to Indian defence officials.
Addressing the media at a special briefing in New Delhi, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army confirmed that Indian forces neutralized many of the drones using a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures. She stated that the drones were intended to test India’s air defence systems and gather intelligence on military infrastructure. In addition to the aerial intrusion, Pakistan also fired heavy-caliber weapons along the Line of Control (LoC), further escalating tensions.
“Forensic analysis of the drone wreckage is underway, and early assessments confirm Turkish-origin technology was used,” Colonel Qureshi added.
In a swift counter-response, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh revealed that India deployed armed drones to strike four Pakistani air defence sites, successfully destroying at least one radar installation. She also confirmed that Pakistani forces continued their aggression with artillery shelling and armed drone attacks, resulting in casualties among Indian personnel. However, she emphasized that the Pakistani Army suffered significant losses due to effective Indian retaliation.
Wing Commander Singh also criticized Pakistan’s decision to keep its civilian airspace open during the offensive, accusing it of using civilian airliners as a shield during the hostilities.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, addressing the diplomatic implications, condemned Pakistan’s denial of the attacks, labeling it as “yet another act of duplicity.” He strongly criticized the targeting of civilian religious sites — including Gurdwaras, convents, and temples — calling it a disturbing and unprecedented provocation.
Highlighting India’s retaliatory strike on the Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters in Bahawalpur, Misri said it was a direct response to the group’s long-standing involvement in terror activities, including the brutal killing of Wall Street Journal journalist Daniel Pearl.
Given the tense security situation, the government has suspended the operations of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor until further notice. On the issue of Pakistan’s ongoing negotiations for an IMF bailout, Misri stated that India will present its security concerns at the upcoming IMF Board meeting and leave it to member nations to decide on further action.
The situation remains closely monitored as India reinforces its commitment to defending national sovereignty and maintaining regional stability.
