Recent reports from defense sources indicate a large-scale drone attack orchestrated by Pakistan, targeting multiple locations within Indian territory on May 8, 2025. The assault involved an estimated 500 drones, with a total flight time of approximately 210 minutes, impacting four Indian states and as many as 24 cities.
The coordinated offensive saw drones and missiles directed towards military installations and civilian areas across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan, and even as far as Jaisalmer. Cities such as Jammu, Pathankot and Udhampur were among the primary targets. India swiftly responded by activating its air defense systems, successfully intercepting a significant number of incoming drones and missiles. Indian forces used a combination of anti-aircraft guns, surface-to-air missiles, and an integrated counter-UAS grid. There were also reports that one Pakistani Air Force jet was shot down near Pathankot in Punjab.
In the wake of the attack, several border cities, including Jammu, enforced blackouts to mitigate potential damage. The Indian Defence Ministry has confirmed that there were no casualties. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has been in contact with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, assuring them that India is prepared to strongly counter any further escalation.
While Pakistan's information minister claims their country has only engaged in a "defensive response" to India's attacks, Pakistan's military stated that India launched attack drones into Pakistan, killing at least two civilians. Pakistan has also denied targeting military stations in Jammu, Udhampur, and Pathankot.
India has accused Pakistan of initiating the attacks, alleging that they were targeting military sites with drones and missiles. In response, India claims to have focused its efforts on neutralizing Pakistani air defense radars and systems. According to reports, an air defense system at Lahore has been neutralized. India has stated its commitment to non-escalation, provided that the Pakistani military also respects this commitment.
Tensions between the two countries have been on the rise since a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22, which India blamed on Pakistan. Pakistan has denied any involvement.
