Tensions between Pakistan and India have escalated after dramatic claims by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) officials that it successfully shot down multiple Indian fighter jets during a skirmish along the Line of Control (LoC). According to officials in Pakistani statements made later that day, they described this incident as having “struck Indian jets like kites”, something which quickly went viral across social media platforms in South Asia.
According to reports, an aerial confrontation took place late Thursday night over Kashmir – long a hotbed for tensions between Pakistan and India – where Indian aircraft crossed into Pakistani airspace near Neelum Valley, prompting immediate interceptor response by Pakistan Air Force interceptors.
“PAF jets neutralized the threat within minutes,” according to Air Vice Marshal Tariq Malik at a press briefing in Islamabad. Our precision and preparedness enabled them to strike down Indian jets like paper kites in the wind.”
Pakistan issued a statement, alongside unverified footage showing burning wreckage alleged from downed Indian aircraft in mountainous terrain, apparently shot down. Reports vary regarding how many Indian jets have been shot down but Pakistani media outlets have mentioned up to three planes being downed, with at least one pilot captured alive.
India has not confirmed any aircraft losses but acknowledged a “significant airspace violation response operation” was conducted in the region. The Indian Ministry of Defense issued a brief statement, asserting its air force had successfully countered “hostile Pakistani aerial movements”, while also disclaiming any engagement losses during this engagement.
Indian Air Marshal R.K. Sharma explained, “this is nothing more than misinformation and psychological warfare by Pakistan to gain domestic political gain. Our aircraft safely returned back to base despite Pakistan’s over-hyped rhetoric aimed at domestic audiences.”
Eyewitnesses in the conflict zone, including residents in Kupwara and Muzaffarabad, reported hearing loud explosions and seeing aerial dogfights late into the night. Online images circulating show what appear to be fragments of aircraft scattered along forested areas near the LoC.
This incident marks the most serious aerial encounter between India and Pakistan since the 2019 Balakot strikes, amid renewed border tensions caused by cross-border artillery exchanges this month that resulted in civilian deaths on both sides.
International observers have expressed grave alarm over the escalated tension. The United Nations issued an appeal for “maximum restraint”, asking both sides to refrain from actions which could escalate to open conflict. Both the U.S. State Department and European Union issued statements calling for de-escalation and offering mediation should it become necessary.
As tensions escalate, both countries have increased border guard presence at their borders. Defense analysts warn that any further provocations could tip the region into wider war if not handled diplomatically.
“Like kites” has become an online trend in Pakistan, hailed by supporters as a display of military prowess while drawing criticism and doubt from Indian voices. While its truth remains debated, its political fallout has already begun.