Recent clashes between India and Pakistan saw India initially suffer losses in the air, prompting a tactical readjustment that ultimately led to successful deep strikes inside Pakistani territory. This was revealed by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan.

In an interview, Gen. Chauhan acknowledged that India had indeed lost aircraft during the early stages of the conflict. However, he refuted claims made by Islamabad that six Indian jets were downed. He emphasized that the focus should not solely be on the losses themselves, but rather on understanding the reasons behind them and rectifying the tactical errors that led to those losses. "What is important is that, not the jet being down, but why they were being down, what mistakes were made, that are important,” Gen. Chauhan stated.

Following the initial setbacks, India undertook a swift reassessment of its strategies. The CDS highlighted that these tactical mistakes were identified, remedied, and rectified. Subsequently, within two days, the Indian Air Force (IAF) redeployed its aircraft, executing long-range precision strikes deep inside Pakistan. Gen Chauhan said that on May 10th, the IAF "flew all types of aircraft with all types of ordnances". These strikes, according to New Delhi, were instrumental in compelling Islamabad to plead for a cessation of hostilities.

While General Chauhan refrained from specifying the exact number of aircraft lost, his comments mark the first clear acknowledgement from the Indian military regarding losses incurred during the four-day military clashes. He outrightly denied claims made by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that Pakistani forces had shot down six Indian fighter jets, including four Rafale fighters.

Air Marshal A.K. Bharti, the Director General of Air Operations, had previously alluded to these losses, stating on May 11, 2025, that "losses are a part of combat," while assuring that all IAF pilots returned home safely.

These recent clashes were initiated by India's Operation Sindoor on May 7, a response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation involved targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir using long-range weaponry, including Brahmos cruise missiles. Some of the attacks were on bases near Pakistan's nuclear facilities.

The CDS's remarks have already stirred political reactions. The opposition has criticized the government for allegedly misleading the nation and has demanded a special Parliament session to discuss Operation Sindoor. Congress party leaders have called for a comprehensive review of India's defense preparedness by an independent expert committee, similar to the Kargil Review Committee.