PAF's F-16 had fired 'beyond visual range missile'

India has conclusive evidence that Pakistan Air Force (PAF) F-16s were involved in the aerial engagement on the LoC on Wednesday as parts of AIM-120 AM-RAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) were found on the Indian side.

THe projectile is a beyond visual range missile carried by F-16s. A PAF F-16 was shot down by IAF combat air patrol, but Pakistan is yet to acknowledge the loss even though visuals of wreckage of the aircraft appeared on Thursday.

A large number of PAF fighters had approached the LoC and were challenged by IAF.

The F-16, PAF's most advanced jet, was challenged and shot down by IAF's vintage Mig-21 Bison. Wing commander Abhinandan Varthaman had engaged the aircraft and fired the R-73 missile in the dog fight.

 

--IANS

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