AIR SUPERIORITY SCORECARD

An interactive analysis of the fighter aircraft that defined the aerial conflict during Operation Sindoor, based on combat performance and technical specifications.

THE AERIAL BATTLEFIELD

The skies over the subcontinent became the decisive arena in May 2025. The Indian Air Force, with its diverse multi-role fleet, faced off against the Pakistan Air Force, which relied heavily on its co-developed JF-17 Thunder. The outcome revealed a stark technological and strategic disparity. Explore the key platforms below.

Dassault Rafale

IAF's Tip of the Spear

Generation: 4.5

Primary Role: Deep-Penetration Strike

Key Weapon: SCALP Cruise Missile

The 4.5-generation Dassault Rafale was the IAF's premier strike aircraft, tasked with the most critical deep-penetration missions. Its combination of advanced sensors, electronic warfare suites, and low-observability features proved decisive.

Its advanced SPECTRA electronic warfare suite and low-observability features allowed it to bypass and suppress Pakistan's air defenses. The aircraft successfully launched French-origin SCALP cruise missiles from standoff ranges, hitting targets with pinpoint accuracy.

Sukhoi Su-30MKI

IAF's Air Dominance Workhorse

Generation: 4+

Primary Role: Air Superiority & Strike

Key Weapon: BrahMos-A Cruise Missile

The Su-30MKI, the backbone of the IAF, played a crucial multi-role function, demonstrating both survivability and potent offensive capability, overwhelming Pakistani defenses with its firepower and maneuverability.

Despite its large radar signature, its super-maneuverability and advanced EW suite allowed it to evade Chinese-made missiles. Its most significant contribution was launching BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missiles, which reportedly destroyed three strategic Pakistani airbases.

PAC/CAC JF-17

PAF's Contested Champion

Generation: 4

Primary Role: Multi-Role Fighter

Key Weapon: PL-15E BVR Missile

The JF-17 Thunder, co-developed by China and Pakistan, is the workhorse of the PAF. The conflict served as its first major test against a modern, integrated adversary, and it was found wanting.

Deployed in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles, the JF-17 was unable to prevent IAF deep strikes or meaningfully challenge for air superiority. This highlighted its limitations against technologically superior opponents employing advanced EW and better-integrated systems.

TALE OF THE TAPE: AIRCRAFT SPECIFICATIONS

This chart visually compares the key performance metrics of the primary fighters used in Operation Sindoor, based on the data from the conflict analysis report. Use the dropdown to switch between different metrics.