India shoots down Pak's F-16 fighter jet within Pakistan territory, condition of pilot unknown: Report

India shot down Pakistan Air Force’s F-16 fighter jet after an airspace violation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Nowshera sector on Wednesday morning. The fighter jet was shot down in Indian retaliatory fire 3 KM within Pakistan territory in Lam valley, Nowshera sector, news agency ANI. The latest development comes amid reports of Pakistan violating airspace in the Rajouri district. According to news agency PTI, "The jets entered into Indian air space over Nowshera sector this morning." The Pakistani jet were immediately pushed back by Indian planes on air patrol but not before dropping bombs. Nowshera is a border town in Jammu.

While details of this retaliation are yet be ascertained by either the Indian Air Force or the Ministry of Defence, contrary claims are being made by the officials across the border. Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor, spokesperson Pakistan armed forces, claimed that, “PAF shot down two Indian aircraft inside Pakistani airspace. “Another starling claim Maj Gen Ghafoor said that, “One Indian pilot arrested by troops on ground while two in the area.” 

Meanwhile, a high-level meeting is underway at the Home Ministry in New Delhi. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is among those attending the crucial meet. There are reports that following the airspace violation by Pakistan, airspace over Jammu, Leh and Pathankot have been closed.