RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Air Force Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Projects), Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi, has stated that Pakistan shot down eight Indian aircraft during “Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos,” declaring that the score now stands at “8-0” in Pakistan’s favor.
Speaking at a joint press conference alongside Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) and senior naval officials on the completion of one year of “Maarka-e-Haq” (Battle of Truth), the senior air force officer detailed Pakistan’s claims regarding the aerial conflict with India.
Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi said the aircraft allegedly downed by Pakistan included four Rafale fighter jets, one Su-30, one MiG-29, and one Mirage-2000 aircraft. He further claimed that Pakistan also destroyed a highly expensive multi-role unmanned aerial system during the operation.
“We brought down eight Indian aircraft during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, and now we are at 8-0,” he stated while addressing the media in Rawalpindi.
The remarks came during a comprehensive briefing by military officials highlighting Pakistan’s military preparedness, operational coordination, and strategic achievements during the confrontation.
Navy Says Coastal Installations Remained Secure
During the same press conference, the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Operations) also spoke about the role of the Pakistan Navy during the conflict. He stated that the Indian Navy attempted several times to deploy its fleet aggressively during the “Battle of Truth,” but Pakistan’s maritime defense strategy successfully maintained security across coastal regions and strategic installations.
According to the naval official, Pakistan’s ports remained fully operational throughout the confrontation, while all coastal facilities stayed protected against potential threats.
He emphasized that close coordination among Pakistan’s armed forces played a crucial role in ensuring success during the operation.
“Our coordination during Maarka-e-Haq guaranteed victory,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s desire for peace should never be interpreted as weakness.
The naval official reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to safeguarding its territorial waters and national interests while maintaining readiness against any external aggression.
DG ISPR Highlights Morale of Armed Forces
DG ISPR, while speaking alongside the senior military officials, highlighted the preparedness and morale of Pakistan’s armed forces, particularly the Pakistan Air Force pilots involved in operations.
He quoted Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi as saying that Pakistan’s military is continuously preparing for the future nature of warfare and remains focused on strengthening its defense capabilities.
The DG ISPR praised the courage and determination of Pakistan Air Force pilots, saying they demonstrated extraordinary confidence while carrying out operational duties.
“When an Air Force pilot was entering his aircraft, there was no fear in his mind,” he remarked.
He further said that members of Pakistan’s armed forces hold a deep sense of commitment and sacrifice for the country.
“This world is temporary. As much as they love life, they love martyrdom equally. Martyrdom is an honor for a soldier,” the DG ISPR added.
Symbolic Importance of “Maarka-e-Haq”
The press conference was held to mark one year since the military operation referred to as “Maarka-e-Haq,” which Pakistani officials described as a defining moment in demonstrating operational coordination among the armed forces.
Military officials used the occasion to emphasize Pakistan’s technological preparedness, joint operational capabilities, and strategic planning for modern warfare.
The event also appeared aimed at reinforcing public confidence in the country’s defense institutions amid ongoing regional tensions between Pakistan and India.
Although Indian authorities have not officially responded to the latest claims made during the press conference, the statements are likely to attract attention across regional defense and diplomatic circles due to the significance of the aircraft mentioned, particularly the French-made Rafale fighter jets.
Defense analysts note that modern aerial warfare increasingly depends not only on aircraft capabilities but also on intelligence systems, electronic warfare, coordination among military branches, and advanced surveillance technologies.
Pakistan’s military leadership maintained throughout the briefing that the country seeks regional peace and stability but remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and respond decisively to any aggression.
