A French Commander confirmed that Pakistan shot down Indian Rafale jets. This follows similar reports from the US. The issue was reportedly not the aircraft itself. Instead, the problem lay with the Indian pilots flying the jets.
Reports continue to highlight India’s defeat in the conflict with Pakistan. Armed forces globally watched the May aerial clash closely. This rare event helped militaries assess pilot performance, fighter jets, and missile systems.
Captain Yves Launay, a commander of a French naval air base, spoke to the media. He stated the problem was “not with the Rafale aircraft, but with the Indian pilots flying them.” Captain Launay oversees numerous naval assets and aircraft. He has flown Rafale jets for 25 years.
He praised Pakistan’s air capabilities. The Pakistan Air Force handled the situation “very effectively.” Speaking at the Indo-Pacific Conference, he clarified the Rafale jets were not downed due to Chinese aircraft superiority. The cause was Pakistan’s strong defense and effective strategy.
The battle was highly complex. More than 140 fighter jets were in the air. Hitting an aircraft was easier with so many targets. However, Pakistan managed the situation much better than India.
An Indian delegate tried to interrupt, calling the claims propaganda. Captain Launay disregarded the objection. When asked about the Rafale’s radar failure, he replied, “The problem was not the machine, but how it was used.”
He added that the Rafale can defeat Chinese jets. The outcome, however, depends on pilot handling. He revealed that India is interested in purchasing the naval version of the Rafale. These naval jets can land on aircraft carriers. They can also carry nuclear missiles.
The review of the Pakistan-India air clash has drawn global attention. Experts believe it offers key lessons. These lessons will shape future military strategy. Analysts saw it as a unique chance to assess real-time performance. This included pilots, jets, and air-to-air missiles in a combat environment.
Also read: What the IAF Say About the Tejas Jet Crash?
