Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh on Friday rejected Pakistan’s claims that it shot down Indian fighter jets during Operation Sindoor, calling those reports “fanciful stories.” He said there is no evidence to back Pakistan’s assertions, while India has shared images showing damage to Pakistani targets. Singh suggested such claims are aimed at saving face and misinforming their public.

Speaking at a press event for Air Force Day in New Delhi, he added that if Pakistan believes it shot down many of India’s jets, that is their belief to hold — India will not dwell on it publicly. He pointed out that Pakistan has not produced any photos showing damage to Indian airbases, hangars, or infrastructure, whereas India has shown images of strikes on Pakistani sites.

Singh also updated timelines for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), saying a first flight is planned around 2028 and induction by about 2035 is achievable. He noted the AMCA’s technology requirements are well understood and that the schedule could even be accelerated with strong effort.

On future fighter acquisitions, Singh said all options — including the Su-57 and Rafale — will be evaluated through a strict induction process, with preference for aircraft that meet India’s needs and offer technology transfer and local manufacturing. He described the Rafale as one of the most suitable and easy-to-absorb options, but emphasized the final choice will depend on what best meets India’s requirements and offers production and technology freedoms. Responding to reports that terrorist groups are moving deeper into Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Singh said the IAF can accurately strike such hideouts if reliable intelligence is available, and that India’s options and capabilities remain unchanged.