In the aftermath of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, India responded with precision and force through “Operation Sindoor,” which targeted Pakistan’s terror infrastructure. While India’s military response hit its mark, Pakistan’s attempted counterattack fell flat — quite literally — thanks to a Chinese-made missile that failed mid-air and landed unexploded in a field in Hoshiarpur, Punjab.
Pakistani Missile Misfires, Lands Intact in Punjab
Sources confirmed that during the operation, a Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet launched a Chinese-manufactured PL-15 missile aimed at Indian jets. The missile, advertised as a high-tech air-to-air weapon with a 300 km range, failed to detonate and crashed into an agricultural field. “Made in China means it will work, but for how long — there is no guarantee. The whole world knows this,” a senior Indian official commented wryly, referencing global doubts over the durability of Chinese defense technology.
Instead of exploding mid-air or hitting its target, the PL-15 missile reportedly ran out of fuel and dropped to the ground in perfect condition. The incident raised serious questions about the real-world reliability of Chinese weapons used by Pakistan.
A Windfall for Indian Defense R&D
India has now recovered the missile intact and plans to use it for extensive technical analysis. Defense scientists are expected to study the missile’s internal systems, including its seeker, propulsion mechanism, two-way data link, and radar guidance. This opportunity, officials say, could significantly boost India’s ongoing development of indigenous beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles like Astra Mk-2 and Mk-3.
By reverse-engineering the PL-15, Indian defense experts can also enhance the country’s electronic warfare capabilities. Insights into the missile’s locking mechanisms and counter-jamming systems will prove critical in preparing for potential conflicts with China, whose air force also relies heavily on PL-15 missiles. “This will help India develop both offensive systems and effective countermeasures,” one defense analyst noted.
As tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan, with China playing an indirect role, the unexploded missile could ironically turn out to be a strategic advantage, a Chinese weapon aiding India’s defense preparedness.
