A high-ranking French intelligence official confirmed to U.S. media outlets that Pakistan has successfully downed one Indian Rafale fighter jet. The official added that French authorities are investigating whether Pakistan has destroyed multiple Rafale aircraft during the recent clash.
According to U.S. media reports, this marks the first time that the French-made Rafale jets, considered among the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world, have sustained damage in combat.
As confirmed by Pakistan’s military spokesperson, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) shot down five Indian aircraft in retaliation to Indian airstrikes, including three Rafale jets, in the early hours of May 7. This bold response underscores Pakistan’s commitment to defending its airspace.
Prime Minister’s Address:
In his address to the National Assembly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the Indian airstrike had been met with a robust retaliation from Pakistan, which turned the night into a resounding victory. He stated, “India, in its arrogance over the Rafale jets, was brought to its senses. We could have downed ten aircraft, but we exercised restraint.”
He praised the Pakistani Air Force for its strategic handling of the situation, including locking down Indian Rafale jets’ communication systems, and warned India that Pakistan was fully prepared for any escalation. Sharif also pointed out the involvement of 80 Indian aircraft in the raid, with five being shot down, including two drones.
Indian Media Confirms Losses:
In related news, the Indian newspaper ‘The Hindu’ briefly confirmed the downing of three Indian fighter jets by the Pakistan Air Force. The publication shared images of the wrecked aircraft on its social media handles, but later retracted the post, explaining that it had not received confirmation from the Indian government regarding the destruction of the jets. The newspaper issued an apology for the confusion caused by the premature report.
