US defence analyst rejects Indian claims of downing Pakistani jets
US defence expert Dr C. Christine Fair has dismissed recent claims made by India regarding alleged damage to Pakistani military aircraft, labelling the statements as unfounded and lacking in evidence.
In an interview with Indian journalist Karan Thapar on The Interview with Karan Thapar on The Wire, Dr Fair addressed comments made by Air Marshal Sandeep Singh Bharti, Director General of Air Operations for the Indian Air Force. Air Marshal Bharti had alleged that India had downed several Pakistani jets and that satellite imagery showed significant damage to airbases in Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sargodha, Jacobabad, and Bholari.
Dr Fair, known for her critical stance on Pakistan’s military and political establishment, disputed these claims. She pointed out that there is no verifiable evidence supporting India’s assertions, particularly the claim that 20% of Pakistan’s air force had been rendered inoperable.
"I find the claim that 20% of Pakistan’s air force has been disabled to be astonishing and decidedly untrue. I've never encountered such a statement before," she told Thapar.
When questioned directly about Bharti's assertion regarding the downing of Pakistani aircraft, Dr Fair described the claim as “bakwas” (nonsense). She reiterated that there is no credible evidence to support the allegation that any Pakistani jets were shot down during the incident in question.
These claims were made amid escalating tensions between the two countries, alongside widespread speculation on social media about potential Pakistani military losses. References to satellite images and alleged airbase damage fuelled the discourse, prompting analysts and journalists to seek expert insights.
Dr Fair’s dismissal of these claims has drawn attention, particularly given her longstanding criticism of Pakistan. Her remarks, diverging from her usual views, have sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewing her stance as adding weight to the rebuttal.
To date, no independent sources have provided official verification or evidence to substantiate the claims made by the Indian Air Force against Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam incident.