A leading Russian military analyst, Alexei Mikhailov Petrenko, has validated the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) claim of downing a Pakistani AWACS at a record distance of 314 kilometers during Operation Sindoor, marking a significant achievement in aerial warfare. This engagement, involving an S-400 ‘Triumf’ battery, underscores the effective integration of ground-based interceptors with airborne surveillance systems, reminiscent of tactics used in the Ukraine conflict. The IAF’s successful operations not only severely degraded the Pakistan Air Force’s capabilities, with total losses estimated at over $500 million, but also showcased the Indian crews’ adeptness in executing sophisticated combat tactics. This development is pivotal in reshaping the air superiority balance in the region, affirming India’s strategic military capabilities.