India, Pakistan Engage in Large-Scale Aerial Battle with Dozens of Fighter Jets

A significant aerial conflict unfolded between India and Pakistan on May 7, involving approximately 125 fighter jets in a dogfight lasting over an hour, with neither side crossing into the other's airspace. Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian aircraft, including three French-made Rafales and two Russian-origin fighters, using Chinese-made J-10C jets equipped with PL15 missiles, whose extended range may have provided a tactical advantage over India's Rafales. India launched Operation Sindoor targeting alleged militant sites in Pakistan following an attack in Kashmir, prompting Pakistani retaliation and the ensuing air battle. While Pakistan has publicly confirmed aircraft kills, India has not acknowledged any losses but reported successful strikes against terrorist infrastructure. This engagement marks one of the largest modern aerial battles and highlights the diverse array of foreign fighter aircraft operated by both countries, with implications for regional security and military technology assessments. Global observers have expressed concern over the escalation given the nuclear capabilities of both nations and have called for restraint.