Recent satellite images have brought to light the potential targeting of an underground facility at Pakistan's Murid Air Base by India during a recent airstrike, codenamed Operation Sindoor, on May 10, 2025. The images, captured by Maxar Technologies, reveal a nearly 3-meter-wide crater located approximately 30 meters from the entrance of a heavily fortified sub-complex within the airbase. This proximity has led to speculation that India aimed to strike deep-buried assets, possibly linked to the Pakistan Air Force's command-and-control functions or drone operations.
The Murid Air Base, situated about 150 kilometers from the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan's Punjab province, is considered a crucial facility for maintaining the operational readiness of Pakistan's air assets in the region bordering India. It houses a fleet of fighter jets and drones, including high-end models like the Shahpar 1 and 2, Burraq, Falco, Bayraktar TB2S and Akinci, CH-4, and Wing Loong 2. The base's strategic importance is further amplified by its proximity to the Pakistan Army's General Headquarters and the Strategic Plans Division, which oversees the country's nuclear arsenal.
Geo-intelligence researcher Damien Symon, associated with the Intel Lab, noted that the targeted sub-complex possesses multiple layers of protection, including double fencing and watchtowers, suggesting it is a high-value target. The strike appears to have breached the perimeter defenses of this zone, indicating the use of precision-guided munitions and deep-penetration targeting. If confirmed, this would mark the first known instance of India attempting to disable subterranean military infrastructure in Pakistan.
In addition to the potential underground facility, satellite images also show damage to the roof of a command-and-control building near a hangar for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Images taken before the strike, dated April 16, show the building intact, while post-strike images from May 10 reveal visible damage. Symon suggested that the roof damage indicates a direct strike, potentially causing internal damage as well.
The operation took place amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. Reportedly, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting alleged terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and Kashmir. These actions followed a deadly attack in Pahalgam, triggering a series of strikes between the two nations before an understanding to cease firing was reached on May 12.
According to Indian officials, the strikes were "measured and calibrated," targeting terrorist infrastructure and military assets. Air Marshal AK Bharti emphasized that sensitive sites, such as Pakistan's alleged nuclear facility at Kirana Hills, were avoided, despite social media speculation.
The potential targeting of the Murid Air Base highlights India's growing capability to conduct precise, deep-strike operations, signaling a shift in its strategic posture toward Pakistan. The strikes on Murid, a key drone warfare hub, along with the damage inflicted on the Nur Khan Air Base, are intended to neutralize critical military infrastructure. The extent of the damage suggests a disruption of Pakistan's operational capabilities, potentially for an extended period.
