India’s Air Defence Destroys Pakistani Missile in Mid-Air; Drone Attacks Continue

New Delhi, 10th May 2025: The already tense situation between India and Pakistan intensified further on Saturday as Pakistan launched a Fateh-1 ballistic missile targeting the western region of India. The missile, known for its precision and destructive capability, was intercepted mid-air by India’s advanced air defense systems, preventing any damage.

The interception comes amid a series of drone and missile attacks exchanged across the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border over the past four days. This latest incident marks a significant escalation, with Pakistan reportedly targeting a strategic Indian military installation.

Meanwhile, India has brought down 2 Pakistani Fighter Jets during an insane dogfight in the Kashmir valley around Srinagar-Budgam-Baramulla.

Pakistan Shuts Airspace After Airbase Strikes

Following explosions at multiple Pakistani Air Force installations—allegedly targeted by India in a series of pre-emptive precision strikes—Pakistan closed its airspace to all civil flights until 12 noon Saturday. Key facilities reportedly hit include the Noor Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, located just 10 km from the Pakistani military headquarters.

Videos circulating on social media show plumes of smoke and fire at the airbase, though official confirmation remains limited. Pakistan media reported that the blasts were the result of heavy overnight shelling and drone activity originating from the Indian side.

India Strikes Back After Repeated Drone Attacks

Defense sources told news agencies that India has been targeting terror launchpads and Pakistani army posts near Jammu and in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), following a series of drone incursions by Pakistan. Over the past 48 hours, Indian air defence systems have shot down over two dozen drones across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Jammu & Kashmir.

On Friday night, Pakistan reportedly launched drone attacks on 26 Indian cities across four states. Indian forces responded with heavy shelling and precision strikes on launch sites believed to be the origin of these drones.

Explosions were also reported near Awantipora Air Force Station in Jammu, though the drone attack was successfully neutralized. Srinagar airport and other key installations have been on high alert. Meanwhile, warnings of possible air strikes have been issued in Chandigarh and Ambala.

Civilians Caught in the Crossfire

Intermittent shelling and gunfire continued along several sectors of the LoC through Saturday. In Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri and Udhampur districts, multiple explosions damaged homes and sparked panic. Loud blasts were also heard in Akhnoor, with visuals showing plumes of smoke rising in the distance.

Reports of Pakistan drones spotted again in Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot sectors on Friday evening raised fresh concerns, with residents urged to remain indoors and follow local administration advisories.

International Community Urges Restraint

Amid mounting fears of a larger conflict, U.S. President Donald Trump called for immediate de-escalation, urging both nations to exercise restraint. “Tensions between India and Pakistan must end as soon as possible,” Trump said in a statement late Friday night.

Strategic Balance and Military Readiness

The use of the Fateh-1 missile marks a new phase in the conflict. With a 140-km range and the ability to carry multiple types of warheads, it represents a major threat if left unchecked. Launched from a truck-based platform, the missile is part of Pakistan’s growing arsenal of guided rocket systems.

India’s swift interception using its multi-layered air defence network—including indigenous Akash systems and imported S-400 platforms—has demonstrated operational preparedness and strategic deterrence.

While both countries have avoided official declarations of war, the intensity and frequency of strikes suggest a dangerous threshold has been crossed.