The recent military escalation between Pakistan and India has generated a climate of uncertainty and tension in the region, with calls for calm and the search for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation. The use of the PL-15 missile in this conflict marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Pakistan's military capabilities and its relationship with China, which could have implications for future military conflicts.
The discovery of PL-15 fragments in Hoshiarpur suggests that the missile was fired from a Pakistani aircraft during an air confrontation on May 7, 2025. This event occurred following intense clashes between the two nations, within the framework of Operation Sindoor launched by India in response to a terrorist attack that occurred in Kashmir.
The variant of the PL-15E missile supplied to Pakistan has a reduced range of approximately 145 kilometers and was allegedly used to shoot down five Indian fighters. The PL-15, originally designed for China's J-20 stealth fighter, is a long-range air-to-air missile with advanced guidance capabilities that poses a significant threat in beyond-visual-range combat.
The use of the PL-15 by the Pakistan Air Force underscores the growing military cooperation between China and Pakistan in a context of persistent tensions with India. Meanwhile, Indian authorities have remained silent on Pakistan's claims regarding the loss of its fighters, raising uncertainty about the balance of power in the region and the possible geopolitical implications of these events. The international community faces the challenge of mediating in this conflict that jeopardizes stability in South Asia.