What happened?
On May 29, 2025, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged that Indian forces launched preemptive BrahMos missile strikes on the night of May 9–10, targeting key military installations deep within Pakistan, including the Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi. Speaking at the Pakistan–Turkiye–Azerbaijan Trilateral Summit in Lachin, Azerbaijan, Sharif admitted that the Pakistan Armed Forces were caught unprepared during India’s Operation Sindoor.
Sharif revealed that Pakistan had planned a retaliatory strike at 4:30 AM after Fajr prayers, but India acted first, launching approximately 15 BrahMos missiles and other precision weapons, effectively neutralizing Pakistan’s planned offensive.
Why it matters to India
This admission underscores the effectiveness of India’s strategic planning and military capabilities, particularly the use of indigenous weaponry like the BrahMos missile. The successful execution of Operation Sindoor not only thwarted a potential Pakistani counterattack but also demonstrated India’s commitment to proactive defense measures. The operation’s success has bolstered India’s defense posture and highlighted the importance of maintaining technological superiority in the region.
Furthermore, the international acknowledgment of India’s military precision and preparedness may strengthen its diplomatic standing and deterrence capabilities, contributing to regional stability.