2 min read
ISLAMABAD: In a significant escalation of military tensions, Pakistan’s air force has reportedly downed multiple Indian aircraft, including three Rafale fighter jets, resulting in an estimated financial loss of approximately $956 million for India.
On May 6, 2025, Pakistan’s air defense systems engaged and reportedly destroyed several Indian aircraft that had allegedly entered Pakistani airspace. The downed aircraft include:
- Three Rafale Jets: Each valued at approximately $288 million, totaling $864 million.
- One Sukhoi Su-30MKI: Estimated at $102 million.
- One MiG-29: Approximately $40 million.
- One Heron Surveillance Drone: Estimated at $230 million.
The combined value of these losses stands at approximately $956 million, not accounting for operational costs, pilot training, or maintenance, which would drive the loss even higher.
In response, Pakistan’s armed forces were immediately placed on high alert, with the National Security Committee (NSC) authorizing retaliatory measures under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which permits self-defense against armed aggression.
The incident had ripple effects internationally as well. As a result, shares of Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of the Rafale jets, dropped by 6% in the wake of the reported losses.
This confrontation follows recent Indian airstrikes and comes shortly after India signed a $7.4 billion deal with France to acquire 26 additional Rafale jets to bolster its naval airpower.
Moreover, the destruction of three Rafales during these hostilities has raised critical questions about India’s defense preparedness and the resilience of its high-cost assets in active combat zones.
Both domestic and international analysts have interpreted Pakistan’s swift military response as a resolute stance against violations of its airspace as well as territorial sovereignty.
