Tensions have surged dramatically along the India-Pakistan border following one of the most significant cross-border escalations in recent years. In a swift and powerful response, Indian armed forces shot down three Pakistani fighter jets and at least 50 drones attempting to breach Indian airspace late last night. The aerial assault was accompanied by intense shelling from across the border, leading to widespread blackouts and panic in multiple Indian border villages.
According to senior defense officials, the attempted intrusion began around midnight when radar systems picked up incoming Pakistani fighter aircraft and a swarm of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Indian Air Force responded immediately, scrambling interceptors to engage the jets and activating ground-based air defense systems to neutralize the drone threat.
All three Pakistani jets were destroyed before they could carry out any strikes. Meanwhile, Indian air defense units successfully downed over 50 drones — many equipped with surveillance tech, and some suspected to be weaponized. Debris from the jets and drones has been recovered and is being examined by intelligence agencies.
Concurrently, heavy cross-border shelling rocked several sectors, damaging power infrastructure and plunging entire areas into darkness. Local residents described the night as one of chaos and fear, with loud explosions echoing through the hills and repeated bursts of artillery fire forcing many to take shelter in underground bunkers.
Emergency response teams have been deployed to assess damage and restore electricity. While no civilian casualties have been officially reported, authorities remain on high alert, and medical teams are on standby.
Defense experts believe the scale and coordination of the Pakistani operation point to a premeditated offensive, possibly intended to provoke a larger confrontation. India's robust and immediate retaliation, however, has sent a strong message of deterrence.
With the situation still unfolding, diplomatic observers warn of potential ramifications on regional stability. The Indian government is expected to address the nation soon, while backchannel communications remain tense.
This unprecedented incident has once again drawn attention to the volatility of the border and the need for heightened vigilance. Security across all forward areas has been intensified, and the armed forces remain on full operational readiness.