Pakistan’s military has successfully intercepted and destroyed 25 Indian drones, identified as Israeli-made Harop MK 2 UAVs, across multiple locations including Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Bahawalpur, Mianwali, Karachi, Chor, Miano, and Attock. This marks a significant development as Pakistan becomes the first country to successfully shoot down these advanced drones.
Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), addressed the incidents by highlighting the concerning escalation in India’s military provocations. He emphasized that India’s actions are endangering regional stability and broader global security.
The use of Harop MK 2 drones, capable of high-altitude surveillance at up to 35,000 feet, demonstrates India’s effort to utilize advanced technology to avoid conventional confrontations. Pakistan’s interception of these drones not only highlights its air defense capabilities but also marks the first recorded success against this particular model globally.
The drone activity follows Indian airstrikes on May 6–7, which tragically martyred 31 Pakistanis and injured 57 others. Reports confirmed that Pakistan responded with swift air and ground operations, downing multiple Indian fighter jets, including four Rafale aircraft. Pakistani officials have stated that these retaliatory actions are designed to be “firm and proportionate.”
Lt. Gen Chaudhry remarked during a press briefing, “Pakistan could have shot down 10 Indian fighter jets, but we exercised restraint.” This poised response underlines Pakistan’s stance on maintaining stability while countering provocation.
The situation further intensified after India closed the Wagah border, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and revoked Pakistani visas following an April 22 attack in Pahalgam, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people lost their lives. India accused Pakistan-based elements of involvement without providing evidence, claims strongly denied by Islamabad.
Pakistan declared any disruption to critical water resources an “act of war.” The retaliatory measures and counterclaims illustrate the fragility of relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors.
