Has Pakistan started repairing Noor Khan airbase? Satellite images reveal repair work of airbase which was destroyed in India’s Brahmos attack
If recent satellite images are to be believed, Pakistan has started repairing the Noor Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi which the Indian Air Force extensive damaged in Rawalpindi with a BrahMos missile during Operation Sindoor in May. Noor Khan Airbase is located less than 25 kilometers from Islamabad and is home to key facilities and strategic equipment of the Pakistan Air Force.
On May 10, the Indian Air Force attacked this airbase with a BrahMos missile targeting the infrastructure, which Pakistan’s air defense system failed to stop. Noor Khan Airbase suffered extensive damage in the attack and buildings were destroyed. According to the report, the drone command center at Noor Khan Airbase was completely destroyed in the Indian attack. India is believed to have used BrahMos and Scalp air-launched land attack missiles during the operation, with the BrahMos being launched from the IAF’s Su-30 fighter aircraft and the Scalp from the Rafale.
What the new images show?
Satellite images highlighted two tractor-trailers with camouflage on either side were at the target of Noor Khan before the attack. Images from May 10 showed that the Indian attack badly damaged both trucks and surrounding buildings. By May 17, Pakistan had cleared the site and NDTV reported that repair work was underway at the site on September 3. New walls are now being built, which are in keeping with the original structure.
What was the damage?
The strategic importance of the Indian attack on this airbase was very big. Noor Khan Airbase is located close to the headquarters of the Pakistan Army and is the center of air mobility operations. Saab Erieye airborne early warning system, C-130 transport aircraft and IL-78 mid-air refueling aircraft were stationed here, which are important for surveillance, logistics and operational coordination. During the Indian attack, these capabilities of Pakistan were destroyed, due to which Pakistan’s ability to attack back was lost. Damien Simon, who analyzes satellite data, has said that the new construction being done by Pakistan is according to the old design.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Pakistan allegedly started repairing its Noor Khan Airbase
- Airbase located close to Pakistan Army headquarters
- Media reports mention site’s clearance is underway
- Airbase destroyed by India’s attack during Operation Sindoor
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