When a country faces a direct threat or is in a state of war, it typically closes its airspace. This means that civilian flights are rerouted or cancelled, military alert levels are raised, and air defence systems are fully activated. However, when India launched an attack on Pakistan around 12:48 AM, Pakistan’s airspace was still open, and several flights were in the air. There were 57 flights, including those from Saudi Arabia, China, and other countries, all carrying thousands of passengers. If Pakistan had immediately activated its air defence systems, these flights could have been targeted, leading to significant damage.

Pakistan’s air defence systems, such as LY-80, HQ-9, and PQ-9, have ranges of 250–350 kilometres. However, these systems work in multiple stages: detecting the target through radar, tracking it, and then firing an interceptor missile after receiving approval from a command centre. Activating these systems takes time, especially in a peaceful environment.

India launched missiles at several locations, including Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Sialkot, and Shakargarh, all located just 10–20 kilometres from the border. At such a close range, the radar system has very little time to react. The missiles hit their targets within 15–30 seconds, making it nearly impossible for any air defence system to intercept them, even the most advanced systems like the THAAD, S-400, or Patriot.

In addition, places like Bahawalpur, which were about 300 kilometres from the border, had open airspace, and the defence systems might not have been fully active there either.

Despite not having the same level of technology as countries like the US, Israel, or Russia, Pakistan has shown impressive capabilities. For example, it became the first country to shoot down a 4.5-generation aircraft and even downed a Rafale fighter, which was recognised globally.

Critics often overlook these achievements, and some continue to question Pakistan’s defence capabilities. However, it is important to understand that even the most advanced air defence systems can struggle with missiles launched from such close ranges.

In response to those questioning why Pakistan hasn’t retaliated, experts point out that Pakistan could easily target Delhi with a missile like the PL-15, which no air defence system would be able to intercept. The Pakistani military has promised that India’s “joy” will not last, and that retaliation will come. They have also emphasised that the blood of innocent civilians will be avenged.