Tensions escalate as Pakistan drones hit Jammu airport, 8 missiles intercepted by S-400 defence system

In a major escalation along the western front, multiple locations across Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan came under coordinated rocket and drone attacks late Thursday night, just a day after India carried out strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to security officials, eight rockets were launched from across the International Border targeting the Jammu civil airport, Samba, RS Pura, Arnia, and surrounding areas. India’s advanced S-400 air defence system successfully intercepted all incoming missiles, averting potential large-scale damage. Two Pakistani drones were also shot down near the Jammu University campus.

One of the drones managed to breach airspace and struck near the perimeter of the Jammu airport, prompting an immediate response from the Indian Air Force. Fighter jets were scrambled and air defence units were placed on high alert. Sirens blared across key military installations, including the Jammu airport and Pathankot Airbase, as authorities enforced a complete blackout in affected areas.

Meanwhile, air defence systems were also activated in Udhampur, Akhnoor, and Pathankot, where multiple projectiles and drones were intercepted mid-air. Explosions were reported as far west as Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, indicating the wide geographical spread of the attack.

In Jammu city, mobile communication networks were temporarily disrupted as part of emergency protocols, while residents reported hearing multiple blasts throughout the night.

Defence sources confirmed that India’s quick activation of its aerial shield prevented any civilian casualties. However, the attack marks a significant spike in hostilities and comes amid rising tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.