RAWALPINDI: Pakistan Army’s spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that India was unable to shoot down a single Pakistani aircraft during the recent Maarka-e-Haq confrontation, rejecting Indian claims and reaffirming Pakistan’s superior air defense capabilities.
In an interview with Bloomberg, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized that Pakistan’s military strategy revolves around maintaining an effective and efficient defense system built on both indigenous innovation and international cooperation.
“Our approach has always been to integrate capable platforms whether developed locally or sourced from the East or the West,” General Chaudhry said. “Pakistan is not in an arms race with India. Our defense budget is significantly smaller, and our resources are limited. But within those means, we ensure the utmost operational readiness.”
He further clarified that Pakistan has always maintained transparency regarding its military performance and never manipulated facts or figures. “The reality is clear India could not shoot down any Pakistani aircraft during the May battle,” he asserted.
Pakistani Systems Proved Highly Effective
General Chaudhry highlighted the strong performance of Pakistan’s weapon systems during the conflict, particularly those of Chinese origin currently in service with the armed forces. “Chinese systems have demonstrated remarkable reliability and combat efficiency in recent operations,” he noted.
The Bloomberg interviewer also referenced remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently confirmed that seven Indian aircraft were shot down during the Maarka-e-Haq battle. Reports indicate that Pakistan’s Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets played a decisive role, taking down multiple Indian Air Force aircraft, including Rafale jets.
According to Bloomberg, Pakistan has continued to enhance its defense capabilities. In August, Islamabad announced the induction of the Z-10ME attack helicopter, expanding its air combat arsenal. The Pakistan Air Force currently operates a mix of Chinese aircraft and U.S.-made F-16s, reflecting its strategy of balanced and diversified defense partnerships.
General Chaudhry concluded that Pakistan’s focus remains on maintaining a credible deterrence posture rather than engaging in an expensive arms buildup. “Our strength lies not in quantity but in quality, discipline, and strategic foresight,” he said.
