The United States government has declined to directly answer queries regarding whether Pakistan lost any of its F-16 fighter jets during Operation Sindoor, a fierce 88-hour battle between India and Pakistan held from May 7 to May 10, 2025, reported NDTV.

When asked by NDTV, the US State Department referred the question back to the Government of Pakistan, stating, “We refer you to the Government of Pakistan to discuss its F-16s.” ‘Ask Pakistan’ is the succinct message the US conveyed to NDTV.

This refusal to comment comes despite the fact that US contractors, known as Technical Support Teams (TSTs), are stationed in Pakistan around the clock precisely to monitor and track the use and status of Pakistan’s US-built F-16s.

These teams operate under detailed end-use agreements between Washington and Islamabad, which specify the conditions under which Pakistan may employ these fighter jets in combat and underpin the continued US support for maintaining the Pakistani F-16 fleet. Consequently, TSTs are contractually obliged to be fully aware of the operational status and location of every Pakistani F-16 at all times.

This US stance contrasts with an earlier account from 2019, after India’s air strikes on the Balakot terror facility. At that time, according to two senior US defence officials quoted by Foreign Policy Magazine, the US conducted a physical count of Pakistan’s F-16s and found none missing, contradicting Indian claims that a Pakistani F-16 had been shot down in aerial combat.

The US indicated in 2019 that if Pakistan used F-16s defensively in response to Indian incursions, that did not breach the end-use agreement, but offensive use would constitute a violation.

Currently, Indian military assessments suggest Pakistan lost several F-16s during Operation Sindoor, either destroyed on the ground by Indian Air Force (IAF) strikes or shot down in air combat. Notably, Indian Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated that the Jacobabad airfield, one of the primary targets, had an F-16 hangar that was partially destroyed during the strikes.

He indicated there were F-16s undergoing maintenance inside that hangar, likely damaged or destroyed. The IAF also claims to have shot down six Pakistani aircraft during the operation, including at least five fighter jets and one potentially large reconnaissance or electronic intelligence aircraft.

In response to Indian claims and the US silence, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif challenged India to open the inventories of aircraft losses for independent verification, implying that India’s claims were false or exaggerated.

The US Department of Defence has, in past Freedom of Information Act responses, refused to compile or release information about Pakistani F-16 losses, citing that they are not obligated to answer such specific operational questions. Similarly, inquiries to the Pentagon and the office of the US Secretary of Defence for Public Affairs on this issue have gone unanswered.

The US maintains continuous oversight of Pakistan’s F-16s through on-ground contractor teams mandated by end-use agreements, it has declined to confirm or deny specific losses of Pakistani F-16s during Operation Sindoor and has redirected queries to the Pakistani government.

This position contrasts with Indian military claims of losses inflicted on the Pakistani air force during the intense hostilities, underscoring the ongoing opacity and contested narratives regarding the battle’s aerial toll.

Based On NDTV Report

Body of the 31-year-old soldier from Telangana was taken to Uri sub district hospital for medico-legal formalities

Army soldier dies after slipping down slope in J-

Army personnel patrol along the Line of Control (LoC) amid heightened security ahead of Independence day at Uri sector in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. PTI Photo

An army soldier died after slipping down a slope during a routine patrol near the Line of Control in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said on Tuesday.

Sepoy B Anil of Maratha Light Infantry, while patrolling a border post, slipped and died on the spot on Monday, the officials said.

They said the body of the 31-year-old soldier from Telangana was taken to Uri sub district hospital for medico-legal formalities.

“Chinar Corps deeply regrets the loss of precious life of Braveheart Sepoy Banoth Anil Kumar, while performing operational duty along the Line of Control in Baramulla district,” Srinagar-based Chinar Corps posted on its X handle.

“Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family,” it added.

Night curfew has been imposed in areas up to two kilometres from International Border in Samba district, an area used by terrorists from Pakistan to enter Jammu region.

Officials said the administration took the decision after talking to various stakeholders in the security establishment. The area, which shares its borders with Pakistan, had been witnessing night curfews till first week of January this year. The fresh imposition of night curfew was done to support Border Security Force (BSF) operations and strengthen security, the officials said.

According to an official order issued by Samba District Magistrate Ayushi Sudan, the restrictions will be in place daily from 10 pm to 5 am for the next two months, unless withdrawn earlier.

“The decision was taken in coordination with security agencies to enhance border monitoring and prevent unlawful activities by regulating civilian movement during night hours,” the order said.

It said any movement during curfew hours will be permitted only for valid reasons and individuals must produce identification when asked by BSF or police personnel.

The mall’s ‘End of Season Sale’ will run from August 15 to 17, with flat 50% off across select brands

Nexus Elante Mall is all set to mark Independence Day with a vibrant celebration honouring India’s heritage, unity, and Armed Forces.

The highlight of the day will be performances by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Band at 5 pm in the mall courtyard, followed by the CRPF Band. Visitors can also witness a CRPF Artillery Display from 3 pm, offering a rare glimpse into India’s defence prowess. A dog show will also be held on the occasion.

To round off the celebrations, the mall’s ‘End of Season Sale’ will run from August 15 to 17, with flat 50% off across select brands.

Move comes after BSF’s praiseworthy performance in Operation Sindoor

In a significant development, the Centre has approved the first ever cadre review of Border Security Force (BSF) Group B and C employees, spanning from Constable to Inspector level ranks and its implementation has already been initiated.

The much-awaited decision is seen as a recognition of the force’s expanding role in national

security, especially following its critical performance during Operation Sindoor.

According to official sources, the implementation will cover a total immediate promotions slate of 23,710 personnel. Resultantly, 8,116 promotion orders in different ranks have already been issued with effect from August 13.

The review is expected to improve promotion avenues from Constable to Inspector that will provide significant respite to them from existing stagnation, thus enhancing overall morale and professional development of force personnel, sources informed further.

BSF personnel’s role in Operation Sindoor was praised by the Prime Minister and Home Minister as well as by top commanders of the armed forces.

Animals in military service are employed for search, rescue missions and for transporting supplies to inaccessible areas

Negotiating debris, wading through water, and climbing over slush where tracks have been washed away, the Army’s mules are playing a silent yet vital role in delivering supplies to flood-stricken areas of Dharali in Uttarakhand — that remain inaccessible to vehicles after last week’s devastating flash floods.

Led by their handlers, columns of mules laden with essential supplies have been making their way to remote hill habitats that are accessible only on foot.

Videos and photos show troops — barefoot, trousers rolled up — trudging through loose soil, crossing flooded patches, and moving over makeshift bridges and tracks, gently nudging along the beasts of burden that have long been a vital part of military logistics in the mountains.

“Mechanisation cannot fully replace Animal Transport (AT) and they are the silent warriors working tirelessly towards assisting the civil administration in Operation Dharali,” the Army’s Uttar Bharat Area said in a post on X.

The mules, along with ponies, horses and dogs, belong to the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC), which is responsible for the training, breeding, procurement, care and management of animals used in military operations.

Animals in military service form an integral part of disaster management operations and are employed for search and rescue missions and also for transporting supplies to inaccessible areas.

The Army has approximately 4,000 mules that make up 15 units. These animals undergo rigorous training and battle inoculation to make them capable of serving in tough conditions and different operational environments. A mule can carry up to 80 kg of supplies.

Recently, the Indian Army has started supplementing animal transport with other mechanical equipment like drones and robotic mules. Their use has also been demonstrated publicly at ceremonial parades and equipment exhibitions.

Dubbed as Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULES), robotic mules at present have been designed to carry 12–15 kg load and are capable of operating in extreme climatic conditions ranging from minus 40 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius.

However, being much shorter and smaller than the traditional animals, and containing electronics and electrically operating components, MULES have some limitations in operating in flooded areas or places where foothold is difficult, sources said.

During Operation Brahma in Myanmar in February 2025, Indian Army columns deployed for earthquake relief had used MULES along with nano-drones for surveillance, assessing structural damage and carrying equipment in unstable terrain.

The Army plans to reduce reliance on animal transport by 60% by 2030. While robotic mules enhance efficiency and reduce risks to human soldiers in many operational scenarios, Army sources said that traditional mules remain indispensable for logistics and flood relief in the mountains.

The works to be undertaken involve complete repainting of the aircraft as well as a total overhaul and refurbishment of the cockpit and the passenger cabin

After being in service for about 20 years, the Indian Air Force’s Embraer-135 business jets that are used for transporting the nation’s top civilian and military leaders are set to undergo a complete facelift.

The works to be undertaken involve complete repainting of the aircraft as well as a total overhaul and refurbishment of the cockpit and the passenger cabin. This will include changing internal fittings and panels, polishing surfaces, and replacing all furnishings, upholstery, curtains, shades, and flooring.

According to sources, one aircraft will be refurbished at a time to ensure that three aircraft are available for operations, sources said. The entire project will be completed within a period of two years, with work on one aircraft expected to take about five months. The IAF has approached a Gurugram-based aviation firm to carry out the work.

The IAF has four Embraer jets that are deployed with the Air Headquarters Communications Squadron base at Palam in New Delhi. The squadron also operates two large Boeing 777 jetliners for use by the President, Vice-President and Prime Minister, three Boeing 737 Business Jets and six modified Mi-17 helicopters.

Manufactured by Brazil, the Embraers entered IAF in September 2005 and are extensively used by top leaders on official visits. These have a range of 7,500 km and a cabin capacity of 14 passengers.

The twin-engine Embraer jet replaced the aged HS-748 Avro twin turboprop engine that was of British origin. Bearing ‘K’ series registration numbers, these aircraft are christened Meghdoot, Vayudoot, Nabhdoot and Gagandoot.

The Air Wing of the Border Security Force (BSF) also has one Embraer-135 on its fleet strength for the Ministry of Home Affairs, which replaced its previous Avro aircraft.

In addition, three Netra Airborne Early Warning aircraft (AEW) used the Embraer-135 as the platform. These were extensively modified by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with an externally mounted overhead radar system, electronic warfare and navigation equipment, and work consoles.

There are also reports that the IAF is acquiring six used Embraer-145 jets for conversion into AEW aircraft by the DRDO in collaboration with Embraer. These would be more advanced and capable variants of the existing Netra.

The Brazilian aerospace major, which manufactures several types of military and civilian aircraft, is looking at expanding its footprint in India. The company has nearly 50 aircraft of 11 different types currently operating in India.

It has established a subsidiary in India to expand its presence in defence, commercial aviation, and business aviation sectors. The company is also exploring opportunities for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in India.

Beyond maintenance, the company is also partnering with Mahindra Defence Systems to bid for the IAF’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program with the C-390 Millennium, potentially involving 40–80 aircraft. This bid includes plans for local assembly, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), and technology transfer, indicating a long-term commitment to India’s aerospace ecosystem.

Arjun SharmaOur Correspondent

An Army jawan operates a drone near the Line of Control ahead of Independence Day. PTI

Amid growing infiltration attempts by Pakistani terrorists, the Army has significantly upgraded its surveillance and defense capabilities along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Rajouri and Poonch sectors of the Jammu region, introducing high-tech equipment and enhanced patrol systems.

In recent weeks, several infiltration bids were reported in Poonch, all of which were successfully foiled by alert Army personnel. On July 30, two terrorists attempting to cross into Indian territory were neutralised by soldiers deployed at the LoC in Poonch. The intruders were carrying a cache of arms and ammunition from Pakistan.

To counter such threats more effectively, the Army has deployed a range of modern surveillance tools, including the Smart Fence System, which significantly boosts border security through real-time monitoring and automated alerts.

Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, Defence PRO based in Jammu, said, “There are formidable challenges faced by soldiers stationed at the border, who steadfastly defend the nation with determination and selflessness. Amidst the breathtaking yet unforgiving landscapes, the soldiers display an indomitable spirit as they tackle adversities with unwavering commitment and an assuring smile.”

He added that despite extreme weather conditions, isolation, and the constant need for vigilance, the soldiers continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience.

To enhance their capability, the Army is now equipped with quadcopters, advanced surveillance tools, bulletproof vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), modern weaponry, and night vision devices to detect and neutralise infiltration attempts—especially during night operations when visibility is low.

Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have benefited from the induction of military vehicles such as the Armado and ATVs, enabling them to operate efficiently in challenging terrain and dense forests.

Also, drones have become a central part of the Army’s surveillance strategy. The official said the increasing integration of Mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Surveillance Drones is transforming operations by enabling persistent monitoring of sensitive areas and supporting potential strike missions.

Night vision devices are also proving critical, especially during dark hours when infiltrators exploit poor visibility. These tools allow border guards to identify and engage threats even in pitch darkness.

On the International Border (IB)—guarded by the Border Security Force (BSF)—locals are being trained as Village Defence Guards (VDGs) in arms handling and self-defense. This initiative is particularly active in the Akhnoor sector, which has witnessed infiltration attempts this year. BSF officials are providing training in the use of semi-automatic weapons to enhance community-level defense.

Meanwhile, ahead of Independence Day celebrations, the Army has intensified patrolling and implemented a three-layered security system along the LoC to prevent any terrorist attempts to disrupt the national event.

Adil Akhzer

Army foils ‘infiltration’ bid in Uri, soldier killed

Adil Akhzer

Srinagar, Updated At : 02:00 AM Aug 14, 2025 IST

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AdvertisementA soldier was killed in an exchange of fire with terrorists as the Army foiled an “infiltration bid” along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Uri sector on Wednesday, sources said.

A senior security official said a “short, intense” exchange of fire took place in the sector and one soldier who sustained bullet injuries later succumbed.

The slain soldier has been identified as Ankit Kumar, a resident of Bihar.

The sources said alert personnel foiled an infiltration bid in the sector and the terrorists were pushed back. The terrorists were suspected to have been assisted by Pakistan’s Border Action Team (BAT), the sources said.

However, the Army has not confirmed whether BAT was involved in the infiltration bid on Wednesday. Soon after the incident, a massive search operation was launched in the area.

Though no statement was issued about the incident, Srinagar-based Chinar Corps paid tributes to the deceased soldier.

“Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of braveheart Havildar Ankit Kumar, who laid down his life while undertaking operational duty along the Line of Control in Uri, Baramulla,” the Army posted on X.

“Chinar warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family,” it said.

Today’s death of a soldier comes a day after another one was killed in “operational duty” along the LoC in Baramulla district on Tuesday. The Army did not clarify how the soldier died.

The gunfight along the LoC comes a few days after two soldiers were killed and two were injured in a fierce encounter in the Akhal forest of Kulgam district. The operation, which continued for nearly two weeks, was called off on Monday, with the elimination of one terrorist. However, other militants managed to escape from the area.

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