New Delhi, August 10, 2025: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has issued another candid admission regarding India’s recent conflict with Pakistan, acknowledging that Operation Sandur was launched without proper planning or understanding of Pakistan’s potential response.
Speaking to local media, Gen Dwivedi likened the operation to “a game of chess,” admitting, “We had no idea what Pakistan’s reaction would be or how devastating it could become. We didn’t even know exactly what we were supposed to do in Operation Sandur.”
The remarks come months after India initiated Operation Sandur in early May, launching airstrikes in Bahawalpur and other Pakistani cities. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) retaliated immediately and forcefully, shooting down six Indian fighter jets — including Rafales — according to Pakistani officials.
On May 10, Pakistan Army struck back with Fateh missiles, targeting Indian airbases, missile depots, and other military installations, inflicting what Islamabad described as “significant damage.” Following the escalation, India sought US President Donald Trump’s mediation. Pakistan agreed to halt hostilities under the arrangement.
While Indian authorities have consistently downplayed their losses, military officials have made indirect references to downed aircraft without confirming the exact number. The Modi government has so far withheld the identities and specifications of the destroyed jets.
In a statement yesterday, the Indian Air Force Chief made a new claim — asserting that India shot down six Pakistani aircraft during the conflict. However, no evidence was provided to substantiate the claim.
By contrast, Pakistan maintains that its air force downed five Indian aircraft in a single day during the second day of fighting. At the war’s conclusion, the PAF Vice Chief publicly declared a “0–6” scoreline in Pakistan’s favour, presenting digital evidence during a press conference alongside DG ISPR and Air Vice Marshal Aurangzeb.
