International News: Despite the declaration of a ceasefire after the recent military flare-up between India and Pakistan, the price paid by Islamabad has been staggering. The Indian Armed Forces’ precision-led offensive during the three-day standoff not only dismantled key Pakistani air bases but also left a lasting scar on its already fragile economy.
Devastating Blow to Pakistan’s Military Infrastructure
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India’s calculated retaliation targeted high-value military installations including Skardu, Jacobabad, Sargodha, and Bhulari air bases. The assault wasn’t just symbolic.It was a statement of strategic depth and technological superiority. Among the most crippling blows was the destruction of Pakistan’s prized aerial assets, including:
- 2 F-16 fighter jets (approx. ₹1000 crore)
- 2 JF-17 Thunder jets (approx. ₹240 crore)
- 1 AWACS surveillance aircraft, critical for real-time battlefield monitoring (approx. ₹5845 crore)
The loss in aerial equipment alone is pegged at a staggering ₹7085 crore.
A Three-Day Conflict, A ₹33,952 Crore Setback
According to international defense economists and media sources, Pakistan’s total estimated damage during the conflict touches ₹33,952 crore. This includes a free-falling stock market, grounded aviation operations, and the abrupt suspension of its national cricket tournament—the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
Here’s a sector-wise breakdown of the losses:
- Drone and missile damage: ₹2546 crore
- Daily military operational cost: ₹212 crore
- Stock market crash: ₹21 crore
- PSL suspension impact: ₹85 crore
- Airspace closure loss: ₹170 crore
These figures expose the depth of Pakistan's vulnerability—not only militarily but economically as well.
IMF Loan Overshadowed by War Losses
Ironically, just weeks before the conflict, Pakistan secured a $2.4 billion (approx. ₹20,371 crore) bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize its collapsing economy. However, in a span of just 72 hours, the damage it suffered exceeded the total amount borrowed leaving the country in deeper financial despair.
Strategic Clarity from India
India’s operation was more than a military maneuver.It was a loud and clear message. New Delhi has signaled that any violation of its sovereignty will be met not with restraint, but with precise and punishing consequences. This assertiveness marks a shift in doctrine: from reactive defense to proactive deterrence.
Global Implications and a Warning
Pakistan’s weakened state post-conflict not only highlights the cost of harboring and backing terrorism but also underlines the rising global intolerance for state-supported militancy. With its military assets decimated and economy in tatters, Islamabad is once again turning to global allies for support.India, meanwhile, has reinforced its position as a regional power that values peace but not at the cost of its security.