Air defence system at Lahore ‘neutralised’ after Pakistan attempt to ‘engage military targets’
May 8, 2025 – In a sharp escalation of cross-border military tensions, India has carried out a retaliatory precision strike, reportedly disabling a key air defence installation near Lahore. This move came after Pakistan launched an unprovoked attempt to target Indian military infrastructure late Tuesday night.
According to defence sources, Pakistan initiated a coordinated assault involving drones and surface-to-surface missiles, aiming at multiple military sites in northern India, including Jammu, Pathankot, and Srinagar. Indian forces successfully intercepted the incoming threats, utilizing advanced air defence systems and electronic warfare countermeasures, preventing any significant damage.
India’s Swift Counter-Strike
Following the attack, India’s military launched a measured and targeted response, focused specifically on neutralizing Pakistan’s offensive capabilities without escalating the situation unnecessarily. The standout moment came when an Indian strike took out a Pakistani air defence system near Lahore, a move that sent a clear message without crossing into broader conflict.
“This was a proportionate and necessary response,” a senior Indian defence official said on the condition of anonymity. “Pakistan’s attempt to target our military infrastructure was thwarted, and our retaliation was limited to ensure deterrence without mass escalation.”
Rising Tensions in the Region
This military exchange comes amid growing unrest in the region, as both nations have exchanged strong words over alleged cross-border infiltrations and militant activities. India has maintained that it only targets militant infrastructure, while Pakistan has accused New Delhi of aggression.
The recent strike was reportedly part of Operation Sindoor, an Indian initiative aimed at pre-emptively countering aerial threats from across the border. Indian media outlets reported that drones used in the attack were of Chinese and Turkish origin, raising questions about Pakistan’s growing military ties with outside powers.
International Reactions and Diplomatic Moves
The developments have drawn international concern. The United States, United Nations, and European Union have urged both sides to show restraint and avoid any steps that could spiral into a broader military conflict. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called for dialogue and emphasized the need to maintain peace in South Asia.
India, meanwhile, briefed key international allies on its actions, emphasizing that it had exercised restraint and acted only in self-defence.
Civilians on Edge
Residents in Lahore reported hearing loud explosions overnight, with some fearing a broader military operation was underway. Emergency protocols were activated in major Pakistani cities, and air traffic in Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi was temporarily suspended. In India, security was heightened across border states, and emergency response teams were put on high alert.
Analysts Warn of More Tensions
Defence analysts believe this may not be the end of the tensions. “While both sides appear interested in de-escalation publicly, the ground reality suggests a very delicate balance. One misstep could lead to a larger confrontation,” said Colonel R.K. Sharma (Retd), a defence strategist based in New Delhi.
Despite the high-stakes nature of the incident, Indian leadership maintained that its aim is not war but security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a rally in Gujarat, stated: “India will never provoke, but India will never tolerate threats to its sovereignty.”
Conclusion:
The neutralization of Pakistan’s air defence system near Lahore serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of the India-Pakistan relationship. With the subcontinent once again on edge, global powers are closely monitoring developments, hoping that diplomatic backchannels can prevent further escalation.
