Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of Air Staff, on Friday held his first media briefing since the launch of Operation Sindoor, which the Indian Armed Forces carried out in May to target terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Speaking to reporters, the IAF chief praised the efficiency of India’s air defence during the four-day operation, stating that Pakistan’s F-16 and J-17 fighter jets were successfully neutralised. Counter-UAV systems and long-range surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) were deployed with precision, striking deep into enemy territory. "This operation has made history as Indian forces successfully struck targets nearly 300 kilometres away. Work is also underway on the advanced ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ system," he added.

Singh emphasised that the operation was conducted with a clear directive and well-defined objectives. “The war began with a defined goal and concluded quickly without prolonging hostilities. Unlike other conflicts globally, we were able to reach a stage where the enemy requested a ceasefire. We took the decision to end hostilities because our objectives were met. This is a lesson the world should take note of,” he said.

The Air Chief also highlighted the strategic advantage offered by India’s newly operational long-range SAMs. “These assets allowed us to penetrate deep into enemy territory and severely restrict their operational capabilities. It will go down in history as the longest kill achieved of more than 300 kilometres. It effectively curtailed their activities,” Singh said, underlining the success and modernisation of India’s air defence capabilities during Operation Sindoor.