KEY POINTS
- BBC, Washington Post, and Le Monde hailed Pakistan Air Force for its precision, technological edge, and dominance
- Pakistan’s successful use of J-10C jets and PL-15 missiles has been described as a “wake-up call” for India
- Reuters reported that Pakistan leveraged its aerial superiority as diplomatic capital
- Indian analysts and media are also admitting Pakistan’s aerial dominance
ISLAMABAD: In the wake of the most intense military flare-up between Pakistan and India, a chorus of international media voices is emerging — and it’s singing the praises of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
What began as a border standoff has quickly turned into an aerial war story where Pakistan not only held its own but, by most accounts, soared far ahead.
From BBC to The Washington Post, Reuters, and Le Monde, leading global outlets are acknowledging what was once unthinkable in Indian military circles: Pakistan delivered a precision-guided masterclass in aerial warfare.
The PAF’s calculated strikes, cutting-edge weaponry, and synchronised operations are now being framed not just as a military success, but as a regional power statement.
The Washington Post dubbed the aerial exchange a “wake-up call” for India. Pakistan’s deployment of J-10C fighters and PL-15 missiles revealed a combat posture that was not only technically advanced but strategically mature.
The downing of India’s prized Rafale jets — once touted as game-changers — was seen as a blow that cut deep into India’s defence prestige.
BBC coverage focused on Pakistan’s ability to command the skies in a high-stakes environment, noting the implications of its air superiority within the broader context of the Kashmir conflict.
With multiple Indian aircraft reportedly neutralised, the message was clear: Pakistan was not playing catch-up; it was setting the pace.
Over in Europe, Le Monde zeroed in on the symbolic impact of Pakistan’s strikes, especially the Rafale loss — a first in combat for the French-built jet. The newspaper suggested that India’s air defence doctrine may now need a complete overhaul.
Meanwhile, Reuters emphasised how Pakistan turned military precision into diplomatic currency.
By leveraging its air performance on the global stage, Islamabad reinforced its case in multilateral forums, not only as a capable force but as a state that can no longer be sidelined in regional power equations.
Even within India, the story is shifting. The once-unquestioned narrative of Indian military supremacy is unravelling on its own networks.
In a jaw-dropping moment on live television, Indian journalist Neelo Vyas admitted that the Modi government had sought U.S. intervention for a ceasefire.
“Our air force was down. Our defences faltered. Pakistan ruled the skies,” she declared, leaving her panel stunned and social media ablaze.
Backing her assessment, Indian defence analyst Praveen Sahni described Pakistan’s aerial campaign as “seamless, synchronised, and superior.”
He cited the coordination between aircraft, drones, missiles, and even satellite systems as evidence of a well-oiled machine that caught India completely off guard.
“There was no question who owned the skies,” Sahni said. “India’s defence systems didn’t just stumble — they froze.”
