India's recent military confrontation with Pakistan, described by The New York Times as the most intense in over 50 years, has drawn global attention for its strategic precision and unprecedented use of high-tech weaponry and surveillance. Supported by high-resolution satellite imagery, the NYT report highlights India’s significant operational edge throughout the four-day conflict that followed Operation Sindoor.
The operation, initiated on May 7, was India's retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. India struck nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. What followed was a high-stakes escalation involving drones, precision-guided missiles, and deep-strike capabilities on both sides. However, India emerged with a clear tactical upper hand:
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Strikes on Pakistani Military Infrastructure:India precisely targeted airfields and military bases, signaling a shift from symbolic retaliations to real degradation of Pakistan’s military capabilities.
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Bholari Air Base (near Karachi): Satellite images revealed significant damage to an aircraft hangar, indicating a successful strike.
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Nur Khan Air Base: Located near Pakistan’s army HQ and nuclear command infrastructure, this was one of the most sensitive installations India targeted — a daring move with deep strategic implications.
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Rahim Yar Khan and Sargodha: India damaged runways at these bases. Pakistan later confirmed the Rahim Yar Khan runway was non-operational via a public notice issued on May 10.
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Pakistan’s Claims Unsubstantiated:Pakistan stated it had struck India’s Udhampur and Adampur airbases. However, satellite images taken on May 12 revealed no visible damage, especially at Udhampur. PM Modi’s visit to Adampur after the supposed strike further debunked Pakistani claims.
The NYT concluded that India demonstrated superior targeting accuracy, technological edge, and strategic intent. This engagement, while short-lived, marks a notable shift in India’s military doctrine — away from restraint and toward assertive precision retaliation, especially under the “no water for terror” stance articulated by PM Modi.
The confrontation ended on May 10 with both countries agreeing to a ceasefire understanding, but not before India made a decisive statement — through action — about the cost of terrorism and the reach of its modern military power.
