In a dramatic heightening of tensions, Pakistan fired eight missiles at strategic and civilian sites in Jammu, including the Jammu Civil Airport, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia, prompting an instant Indian military response. The missile attack was effectively deflected by the S-400 air defence system of the Indian Air Force, which intercepted and destroyed all incoming missiles.
Pakistan Aims at Civilian Infrastructure
Pakistan, as per the country’s top security officials, carried out a coordinated missile attack late on Wednesday night, targeting key civilian and defence establishments. The Jammu Civil Airport was the prime target, a key connectivity link in the Union Territory. Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia were also targeted with missiles, all densely populated and situated near the International Border (IB).
BREAKING: India successfully shoots down Pakistani drones targeting Jammu, foiling aerial threat.
Jai Hind Ki Sena ???#IndiaPakistanWar #OperationSindoor2 #PakistanATerrorState
— A D V A I T H (@SankiPagalAwara) May 8, 2025
If the S-400 system had not intercepted the threats, the attack would have led to huge civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure.
Rapid Activation of India’s S-400 Shield
In a first for India’s air defence readiness, the S-400 Triumf system, installed in northern regions, was quickly activated. The sophisticated radar and missile interception system picked up and destroyed all eight incoming missiles mid-air, successfully preventing catastrophe.
This episode highlights the strategic importance of the S-400 system in India’s defense portfolio and demonstrates its efficacy in battlefield conditions.
Relevance to Pahalgam Terror Attack of Pakistan
The missile attack came just days after the horrific terror incident in Pahalgam. Militants had opened fire on a tourist vehicle, killing several civilians. Witnesses claimed the terrorists had questioned passengers based on their religion before opening fire a dastardly reminder of cross-border terrorism.
The Pahalgam attack had triggered outrage across the country. It is being suspected to have been engineered by terror groups supported by Pakistan. Analysts are of the view that the missile strikes could be attributed to the growing tensions after Pahalgam. Pakistan is believed to be trying to deflect attention from its role in sponsoring terror in Kashmir.
India on High Alert; Strategic Response Likely
Jammu and its hinterland have been put on high security watch. Civilian air traffic was suspended at the Jammu airport, and rescue teams have been sent. India’s armed forces and diplomatic setup, meanwhile, are considering a measured response, perhaps under Operation Sindoor, to destroy terror networks along the border.
The new turn of events has again plunged Indo-Pak relationships into a region of extreme turbulence.
