Key takeaways from IAF Chief speech:

1. S-400 shot down five Pakistani jets. One AWACS/ELINT was hit mid-air, another at Bholari destroyed, plus US's F-16s on the ground were hit.

2. India likely kept this information confidential to avoid denting the reputation of US-made F-16s and straining ties with US, which were not bad at that time. Such calls aren’t about ego; deciding what to reveal, what to withhold, and for how long requires careful strategic judgement. I’m sure keeping it under wraps then was the prudent choice.

3. There was absolutely no pressure from the govt to hold back as claimed by Indian opposition.

4. Timing matters, and this revelation makes it clear the govt has no intention of pampering Trump. That’s excellent.

5. The Chief expressed disappointment that despite the success in Balakot, they couldn’t convince their own people. This highlights how negative politics and opposition forces siding with the enemy can erode the morale of our armed forces.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. Jai Hind.