NEW DELHI, Aug 9: Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh revealed on Saturday that following India’s precision strikes under Operation Sindoor on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, many close to him expressed that the strikes could have been even more extensive.

“On that night, we were really on a roll. I’ve heard from many people, and although I hesitate to say this, those very close to me said, ‘aur maarna tha’ — meaning ‘you should have hit them more,’” Singh said during the 16th Air Chief Marshal LM Katre Memorial Lecture in Bengaluru on August 9.

He also disclosed that the IAF shot down five Pakistani fighter jets along with a large aircraft, marking India’s largest-ever recorded surface-to-air kill.

“We have confirmation of at least one AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) in the hangar, along with several F-16s undergoing maintenance. At least five fighters were confirmed shot down, as well as one large aircraft — either an aircraft or AWACS — at a distance of approximately 300 kilometers. This is the largest surface-to-air kill ever recorded by India,” he stated.

The operation also resulted in several unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, and some missiles falling within Indian territory.

Based on precise intelligence, Singh said the IAF targeted the airfield, striking the main building where planning was conducted, which also served as a civilian terminal at times. “At the Sukkur airbase, we hit the UAV hangar and radar site,” he added.

Singh commended National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for effectively coordinating various agencies and forces during Operation Sindoor.

Highlighting the thorough preparation, he noted that military leaders planned for all possible scenarios and responses. Reflecting on a key lesson from the operation, Singh said, “The biggest takeaway is the primacy of air warfare. It has once again become clear that air power is the first responder for any country, capable of swift, precise deep strikes to achieve objectives without collateral damage.”