An in-depth look at Pakistan’s military, diplomatic, and strategic response to India’s Operation Sindoor.
By: A.R Manj
11/05/2025
Tensions between India and Pakistan once again reached a dangerous high following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. The incident, which resulted in 26 fatalities, reignited longstanding hostilities, with India accusing Pakistan-based actors—claims strongly denied by Islamabad and unsupported by publicly available evidence.
Within days, both nations were on the brink of full-scale conflict, prompting international concern. It was U.S. President Donald Trump who ultimately announced that the two nuclear-armed neighbours had agreed to an “immediate and full ceasefire”—a move soon confirmed by both capitals.
But before diplomacy prevailed, the region witnessed a dramatic escalation—characterized by cross-border attacks, missile interceptions, and fierce air combat. Central to Pakistan’s defense was Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, its direct counter to India’s Operation Sindoor.
Here is a comprehensive review of Pakistan’s key strategic and military responses throughout the standoff:
Air Superiority: The Night of May 6–7
In a landmark moment for the Pakistan Air Force, five Indian fighter jets—three Rafale, one Su-30, and one MiG-29—were reportedly downed in Beyond Visual Range (BVR) engagements. Pakistani officials lauded the operation as a “100–0” success, with no PAF aircraft lost during the clash.
Drone Defence on May 7
Pakistan demonstrated robust electronic warfare and air defense capabilities by intercepting and destroying 78 armed Israeli-origin drones, including Heron and Harop variants. Later that evening, an incoming Indian missile was shot down near Dinga in Pakistan’s Punjab province.
Missile Interceptions: May 8–9
Pakistan’s air defense systems thwarted several BrahMos supersonic missile attacks, underscoring significant advancements in detection and interception technologies.
Tactical Counterstrikes and Fateh-1 Deployment
Throughout the confrontation, Pakistani forces retaliated with precision strikes on 26 Indian military installations, following attacks on seven Pakistani sites. Intelligence reports indicate successful targeting of Indian brigade and battalion command posts along the Line of Control (LoC).
Pakistan also deployed its domestically produced Fateh-1 guided rockets. Defense officials credited the system with delivering critical blows to Indian airbases and logistics zones, praising its performance under real combat conditions.
Diplomatic and Financial Maneuvering
In a significant diplomatic win during the conflict, Pakistan secured a $1 billion IMF loan approval, reinforcing international confidence. China and Turkiye offered open support to Islamabad, while Western nations adopted a neutral stance. Notably, Israel expressed support for India, while New Delhi abstained from certain key international votes during the crisis.
Narrative Control and Media Strategy
Pakistan successfully leveraged its state media and diplomatic channels to push back against Indian narratives. By highlighting internal dissent in India—including rising tensions with Sikh and minority communities—Islamabad gained the upper hand in global perception, according to analysts.
Unity vs. Discord
While Pakistan showcased strong national cohesion during the crisis, Indian media outlets reported internal divisions and political unrest back home—an image that may have weakened India’s position during the standoff.
Conclusion
Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos showcased Pakistan’s growing military readiness and its ability to mount a coordinated diplomatic, military, and information response under pressure. While both nations ultimately stepped back from the brink, the episode marked one of the most serious flashpoints in recent years—and one where Islamabad claimed both strategic and symbolic victories.
As the ceasefire holds, questions remain about long-term stability in the region and whether such dangerous escalations can be prevented in the future.
