India appeared to outmatch Pakistan in recent cross-border military exchanges, delivering precise and effective strikes on key Pakistani military installations, according to a detailed assessment by The New York Times backed by high-resolution satellite imagery.
The report, which reviewed pre- and post-strike satellite photos, noted visible structural damage at several Pakistani air bases, suggesting Indian strikes were both strategic and successful.
“The four-day confrontation marked the most intense military engagement between the nuclear-armed neighbours in over 50 years,” the report stated. It highlighted the use of drones, missiles, and high-tech precision weaponry by both countries. However, India’s targeting of Pakistan’s defence infrastructure—particularly its airfields—was noted as a standout aspect.
At the Bholari Air Base, located close to Karachi, India reportedly targeted and damaged an aircraft hangar. Similarly, the Nur Khan air base—considered a highly sensitive military zone due to its proximity to Pakistan’s army headquarters and nuclear command—was also struck, raising the strategic stakes of the operation.
India also focused on runways and critical airbase infrastructure at multiple sites. For instance, a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued on May 10 confirmed that the runway at Rahim Yar Khan air base had been rendered non-operational. Sargodha Air Base in Punjab Province was also struck, with India claiming two specific runway segments were hit with precision-guided weapons.
While Pakistan claimed to have inflicted comparable damage on Indian installations—including the Udhampur air base—the NYT report countered these assertions. Satellite images from May 12 did not show any notable damage at the Indian facility, casting doubt on Pakistan’s claims.
The skirmish began after India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. Pakistan retaliated with attempted strikes on May 8, 9, and 10, but India’s counteroffensive reportedly hit several Pakistani military sites, including Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Sukkur, and Chunian. Radar installations at Pasrur and the Sialkot aviation base were also targeted and heavily damaged.
On May 10, both sides agreed to de-escalate, concluding the four-day exchange—the most technologically advanced yet between the two rivals.
