New Delhi, May 9 — India’s military on Friday accused Pakistan of violating Indian airspace and attempting a large-scale drone attack on military installations during the intervening night of May 8 and 9, marking a sharp escalation in cross-border hostilities.
According to the military, Pakistan launched between 300 and 400 drones aimed at 36 locations spanning from Leh in Ladakh to Sir Creek in Gujarat.
“Pakistan sent 300-400 drones at 36 locations from Leh to Sir Creek on Thursday night to target our military installations,” an official statement said.
Among the key targets was the Bathinda military station in Punjab, which came under threat from a Pakistani armed unmanned aerial vehicle.
“One Pakistani armed UAV was sent to target the Bathinda military station; but the attempt was foiled,” said the Indian military.
Indian forces reportedly responded swiftly, using both kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures.
“Our armed forces shot down many of Pakistani drones using kinetic and non-kinetic means,” the military said.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that forensic analysis of the drone wreckage is underway. Initial findings suggest the use of Turkish-made drones.
“Initial reports suggest that they are Turkish Asisguard Songar drones,” a spokesperson from the MEA said.
In a strong statement, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri condemned the targeting of religious sites during the drone barrage. “The Pakistani side targeted places of worship with a particular design; it is a new low even for Pakistan,” Misri said.
The alleged drone offensive follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of India’s Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.
Investigations are ongoing, and officials indicated further updates would be shared as assessments continue.
