India-Pakistan Conflict: Satellite Images Show Devastation at Pakistani Air Bases
India-Pakistan Conflict: Satellite Images Reveal Devastation at Pakistani Air Bases
New satellite images have provided a stark look at the damage inflicted on several Pakistani air bases following India’s retaliatory strikes on May 10th. The images, captured by Maxar Technologies and exclusively shared with India Today, show the extent of the destruction at strategic military sites across Pakistan.
The strikes, carried out in response to Pakistani air intrusions into Indian airspace, targeted air bases in Sukkur, Nur Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Mushaf, Jacobabad, and Bholari. They also hit radar sites at Pasrur and Sialkot.
Sukkur Air Base
Located in Sindh province, Sukkur air base serves as a forward operational base for the Pakistani Air Force (PAF). It houses fighter jets like the F-16 and J-17 and plays a vital role in strengthening Pakistan’s defense along its coastline near Karachi.
Nur Khan Air Base
One of Pakistan’s most crucial air bases, Nur Khan is located just 10 km from Islamabad and houses VIP aircraft used to transport the country’s top leadership, including the President and Prime Minister. It also serves as the nerve center for Pakistan’s air mobility command and houses advanced airborne early warning systems, C-130 transporters, and IL-78 refueling aircraft. The attack on Nur Khan triggered panic among Pakistani leadership due to its proximity to military headquarters.
Rahim Yar Khan Air Base
The Rahim Yar Khan air base suffered significant damage, with Indian strikes leaving a massive crater on its runway. This forced Pakistan to suspend flight operations for a week. The runway is also used by the Sheikh Zayed International Airport.
Mushaf Air Base, Sargodha
Mushaf air base in Sargodha, a key strategic asset of the PAF, houses some of Pakistan’s most advanced fighter aircraft, including the F-16, Chengdu J-7, Mirage 5, and JF-17 Thunder. The base, which serves as the headquarters of the Central Air Command, was also targeted by India during the 1965 war.
Jacobabad Air Base
The Jacobabad air base, home to some of the Pakistani Air Force’s most advanced aircraft and equipment, was used by US and NATO forces during the war on terror following the 9/11 attacks.
Bholari Air Base
Operationalized in 2017, the Bholari air base in Jamshoro houses squadrons of both the JF-17 Thunder and F-16 fighter jets. It also stations Saab 2000 AEWAC (airborne early warning and control aircraft).
The images provide a visual testament to the intensity of the conflict and highlight the significant damage inflicted on Pakistan’s air infrastructure. They underscore the seriousness of the situation and the potential for further escalation.
