A recent European analysis has found that the Indian Air Force (IAF) dominated the skies during Operation Sindoor, compelling Pakistan to request a ceasefire within just four days. The study, published by the Switzerland-based Centre d’Histoire et de Prospective Militaires (CHPM), provides an independent assessment of the aerial confrontation that took place from May 7 to May 10, 2025.
According to the 47-page report by military analyst Adrien Fontanellaz, the IAF achieved air superiority early in the operation, enabling precise strikes deep into Pakistani territory. By May 10, the report notes, Indian aircraft operated with almost total freedom, targeting key infrastructure, airbases, and command centres. Advanced weapons such as BrahMos missiles and SCALP‑EG long-range missiles played a crucial role in neutralising Pakistan’s defences.
The operation followed a terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which India attributed to groups based in Pakistan. In retaliation, the IAF launched coordinated strikes using Rafale and Mirage‑2000 jets, along with supporting aerial reconnaissance and electronic warfare systems. Pakistan responded by scrambling fighter jets and deploying PL‑15 air-to-air missiles, but the study says these efforts were largely ineffective due to India’s integrated air-defence systems.
The report also examined claims of aircraft losses on both sides. While Pakistan asserted it had downed multiple Indian jets, the European analysis verified fewer such incidents, highlighting that many incoming missiles were evaded. In contrast, India inflicted significant damage on Pakistani air infrastructure and equipment, degrading its ability to respond effectively.
By midday on May 10, 2025, Pakistan formally requested a ceasefire, which India accepted, ending the hostilities. The European study concludes that the IAF’s performance achieved India’s military and political objectives while demonstrating careful control over escalation, avoiding a larger conflict.
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