Operation Sindoor: India's Precision Strikes Reveal Extensive Damage to Pakistan's Murid and Nur Khan Airbases

In a decisive response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 10, 2025. This operation involved precision airstrikes targeting key Pakistani military installations, notably the Murid and Nur Khan airbases. High-resolution satellite imagery has since revealed significant damage to these facilities, underscoring the operation's effectiveness and India's strategic capabilities.

Satellite images show how India targeted underground facilities at Pak's Murid airbase.Image Source : X | News18

Murid Airbase: Targeting Underground Facilities

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies depict a nearly three-meter-wide crater situated approximately 30 meters from the entrance of a heavily fortified sub-complex at the Murid Airbase in Pakistan's Chakwal district. This area is believed to house an underground facility, possibly linked to command-and-control operations or drone activities. The proximity of the crater to this facility suggests a deliberate attempt to neutralize critical subterranean assets.

Further damage is evident on the rooftop of a nearby structure adjacent to unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) hangars, indicating a direct strike that likely compromised internal systems.

Nur Khan Airbase: Extensive Structural Damage

The Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, another strategic target, suffered substantial damage during the operation. Satellite imagery reveals the destruction of two large trucks, believed to be command and control vehicles, and the demolition of a nearly 7,000 square foot structure. Given its proximity to Pakistan's General Headquarters and the Strategic Plans Division, the damage to Nur Khan underscores the operation's strategic depth.

Broader Impact and Strategic Implications

Operation Sindoor's precision strikes extended beyond Murid and Nur Khan, targeting a total of 11 Pakistani airbases and defense establishments. The operation aimed to dismantle infrastructure supporting cross-border terrorism and degrade Pakistan's military capabilities. Reports indicate that the strikes crippled Pakistan’s radar coverage, dismantled command and control systems, and exposed vulnerabilities in its defense infrastructure.

Notably, the operation also resulted in the destruction of a vital Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft at the Bholari Airbase, as confirmed by former Pakistani Air Marshal Masood Akhtar. The loss of this asset significantly hampers Pakistan's air surveillance and battle management capabilities.

Ceasefire and Aftermath

Following the intense military engagement, both nations agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, 2025. Indian officials have since revealed evidence of the strikes, emphasizing the operation's precision and effectiveness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the armed forces for their coordinated efforts, stating that the temporary halt in military action was in response to Pakistan's appeal. He affirmed that any future provocations would be met with decisive retaliation.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor marks a significant escalation in India's counterterrorism strategy, showcasing a shift towards neutralizing high-value underground military assets. The operation's success underscores India's commitment to safeguarding its national security and responding decisively to acts of terrorism.

(Sources: News18, Hindustan Times, India Today)