India’s air defence forces successfully intercepted three Pakistani fighter jets, including two JF-17s, as Islamabad launched coordinated aerial attacks on multiple targets in Jammu and Punjab, government sources confirmed late Thursday. In a significant blow to Pakistan’s aerial capabilities, an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft was also downed in Punjab, reportedly crashing on Pakistani territory.
In addition to this, Indian security forces prevented multiple drone attacks in sensitive border areas. In Jammu and Kashmir, drones were intercepted in Udhampur, and other attempts were thwarted in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. One drone was shot down in Akhnoor, while two kamikaze drones were neutralized in Poonch, averting potential destruction.
The conflict escalated on Thursday night when Pakistan initiated rocket attacks across the International Border, targeting various locations in Jammu, including the Jammu Civil Airport. One of the drones hit the airport area, prompting the Indian Air Force to launch fighter jets and activate advanced air defence systems, which successfully intercepted incoming projectiles.
Pakistani forces escalated the situation further by engaging in heavy shelling along the Line of Control in Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Samba, and Uri districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Reports indicate that the shelling persisted for more than an hour in the Uri sector, inciting panic among local residents.
In response to the heightened tensions, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced the closure of all schools and colleges in the state for three days. Schools in Jammu and Kashmir will also be closed as a precaution.
On the diplomatic front, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar held crucial discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and EU High Representative Kaja Kallas, updating them on the escalating situation and expressing gratitude for their support in counter-terrorism efforts with India.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh convened a high-level meeting to review the security situation amid ongoing missile and drone threats. Intelligence reports suggest that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has mobilized sleeper terror cells in Jammu and Kashmir, raising concerns about internal security threats. Security agencies have confirmed six explosions near an ammunition depot in Khundroo, Anantnag, intensifying fears regarding potential attacks.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/national/story/india-shoots-down-pakistani-fighter-jets-awacs-aircraft-foils-multiple-drone-attacks-1210783-2025-05-08?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-05-08 23:20:00
