Modi Government’s “Political Restraints” Blamed for IAF Jet Losses in May Dogfight
By M Muzamil Shami - June 30, 2025
-
Indian Defence Attaché Capt. Shiv Kumar admits IAF lost jets during May 7 aerial clash.
Losses attributed to political constraints, not military shortcomings.
-
Rare public admission sparks political backlash within India.
-
Pakistan claims it downed up to six jets; India counters with fewer losses.
-
Operational shift post‑loss, including targeted strikes on military installations.
Rising Controversy: Political Restraints Led to IAF Aircraft Losses
JAKARTA, June 30, 2025 — In an unprecedented public admission, Indian Naval Attaché Capt. Shiv Kumar revealed that political directives tied the hands of the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the intense aerial clash with Pakistan on May 7, 2025. Speaking at a seminar in Jakarta, he conceded that several IAF jets were downed—not due to operational incompetence, but due to strict political constraints imposed by Prime Minister Modi’s government
Stricter Directives Amid Escalation
Capt. Kumar explained that the government’s orders specifically forbade strikes on Pakistani military infrastructure and air-defence systems. He acknowledged losing multiple aircraft before tactics were adjusted to focus on enemy air defences and military targets using BrahMos missiles. He stopped short of confirming the exact number, but emphasized that the losses were less than some reports claimed.
From Political Restraint to Tactical Shift
Initially ordered to target only terror camps, the IAF soon faced resistance from Pakistan's sophisticated air-defence shields. Capt. Kumar noted:
“After the loss, we changed our tactics… we first achieved suppression of enemy air defences… and then… our attacks could easily go through using BrahMos missiles.”
Broader Military Acknowledgment
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Anil Chauhan affirmed the occurrence of aircraft losses, emphasizing that understanding the “why” was more important than the how many. He dismissed Pakistan’s claim of six jets downed, saying it was “absolutely incorrect”
Pakistan’s Perspective & International Stakes
The Pakistan Air Force asserts it shot down up to six Indian jets, including three Rafales, during the dogfight. They credit advanced Chinese J‑10C jets and PL‑15 missiles for their success. Pakistan’s claims remain disputed; France’s Dassault Aviation denied any Rafale losses
Political Backlash in India
The debate over the jet losses has fueled harsh criticism from the Congress party, which accuses the Modi government of misleading the nation. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge has urged for a special Parliament session to clarify the aircraft losses, calling for transparency. Former BJP leader Subramanian Swamy separately claimed that five jets were downed and demanded full disclosure
Strategic & Diplomatic Repercussions
This confrontation—the largest aerial engagement since World War II—underscores the complex interplay of political control, military planning, and regional deterrence. Following intense back-and-forth missile strikes from May 7–10, both nations agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10 .
The event has prompted a global diplomatic offensive. India is working to frame its actions as counter-terrorism, while Pakistan counters with a campaign highlighting its aerial success
FAQs
Q: How many jets did India actually lose?
A: India has not confirmed a precise number. Capt. Shiv Kumar admits “some aircraft” were lost due to political constraints. Pakistan claims six; independent sources suggest fewer—potentially 2–4 .
Q: Why were IAF pilots restricted from targeting military infrastructure?
A: To signal political deterrence against terror without escalating to full war, the Modi government instructed the IAF to limit strikes to terror camps only, avoiding direct military engagement .
Q: What pardons did the IAF take after losses?
A: Following losses, the IAF shifted tactics: suppression and destruction of enemy air defences (SEAD/DEAD) were prioritized, then attacks on military installations proceeded using BrahMos missiles .
Q: What are the political consequences in India?
A: Congress demands full disclosure and a parliamentary session. Opposition voices—including former BJP members—have accused the government of secrecy and misleading the public
We want your thoughts: Should civilian governments have the authority to limit military targeting in high-stakes conflicts?
Share your opinion below! And click Read more for a full breakdown of the May 7 dogfight, tactics, and fallout.
0 Comments