Introduction
The rivalry between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) is among the most intense in South Asia. Recently, Pakistan’s Air Vice Marshal (AVM) claimed a “6-NIL” lead in aerial encounters with India, sparking fresh debate. Shehbaz Sharif’s comment that “In Trump, Pakistan has found a great partner” further adds a geopolitical twist. This blog explores the top 6 moments that form the basis of Pakistan’s controversial 6-NIL claim and its political significance.
1. 1965 War: Operation Grand Slam
During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, PAF claimed to have shot down several IAF aircraft, asserting initial air superiority. The battle over Chhamb and Akhnoor was a key early victory credited to the PAF’s aggressive tactics.
2. 1971 War: Tactical Wins Despite Strategic Loss
Although Pakistan lost East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1971, the PAF highlighted individual dogfights and aircraft takedowns as tactical wins, including notable kills by pilots like MM Alam.
3. Kargil Conflict 1999: Airspace Dominance
Though limited in aerial engagements, Pakistan claimed it deterred IAF’s deeper air incursions during the Kargil conflict. PAF’s successful radar jamming and strategic positioning were hailed as quiet victories.
4. 2008 Mumbai Aftermath: Operation Swift Retort Preparation
In the aftermath of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, both air forces entered high alert. Pakistan began intense modernization of its fleet and radar systems, preparing for rapid response protocols that laid the groundwork for future engagements.
5. 2019 Balakot Airstrike Response
Perhaps the most referenced incident in the “6-NIL” claim is the 2019 dogfight post-Balakot strike. Pakistan shot down IAF’s Wing Commander Abhinandan’s MiG-21 and captured him—a moment broadcasted worldwide and perceived as a major symbolic victory for PAF.
6. Electronic Warfare Superiority in Skirmishes
In various post-2019 skirmishes, PAF claims superior electronic warfare capabilities, reportedly jamming IAF’s radar and communication systems. These non-kinetic victories bolster their claims of operational dominance.
Shehbaz Sharif’s Trump Comment: A Geopolitical Angle
Adding a political twist, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently stated that “In Trump, Pakistan has found a great partner.” This aligns with the PAF’s confidence narrative, suggesting diplomatic assurance under Trump-era ties. Sharif implies that U.S. political backing could bolster Pakistan’s regional posturing.
Conclusion
While the “6-NIL” claim by Pakistan is heavily debated and rejected by Indian defense analysts, it remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s air force morale. The incidents cited reflect key moments in South Asia’s tense aerial history. Shehbaz Sharif’s framing of Trump as a supportive ally adds an extra layer of complexity, blending military bravado with geopolitical maneuvering.
Want to understand the full air conflict history? Click here to explore a detailed Indo-Pak aerial timeline.
