India Denies Pakistan’s “Rafales” Claim, Defence Sec Sets Record Straight
India has firmly denied Pakistan’s recent claims that multiple Rafale fighter jets were deployed near the border. Responding to the allegation, Defence Secretary George Kurian clarified that the assertion of “Rafales in the plural” was “absolutely not correct,” dismissing it as misinformation.
Rafale jets
India operates a fleet of 36 Rafale fighter jets acquired from France, known for their advanced capabilities including nuclear delivery, deep strike, and electronic warfare. These jets are stationed at well-established bases across India and play a key role in maintaining air superiority and rapid response readiness.
Kurian emphasized that while these aircraft are actively maintained and regularly mobilized for drills, there has been no unusual movement of Rafales towards the Indo-Pak border. Their positioning remains consistent with routine operational planning.
Pakistan’s claim
Pakistan’s military sources had alleged that India moved several Rafales towards the Wagah-Attari axis in what it described as an intimidation tactic. The narrative suggested India was projecting air dominance amid recent cross-border tensions. However, Indian officials clarified that the Rafale fleet has not been amassed near the border and there was no tactical buildup.
India’s response
The Defence Secretary reassured that no provocative action has been taken by India and described current deployments as routine and defensive. He underscored that military preparedness does not equate to aggression, and emphasized that India remains committed to peace and strategic stability in the region.
Kurian further added that India’s military does not respond to speculative reports but reserves the right to clarify when misleading narratives emerge. The clarification comes amid heightened sensitivity along the Line of Control and international attention on South Asia’s security environment..
