Web desk: A record number of Indian Air Force pilots have resigned in recent years, with 163 leaving service in 2025 alone, according to official documents.
Newly released official documents from the Indian Air Force (IAF) indicate that 780 general-duty pilots have resigned over the past five years. This includes fighter pilots.
The year 2025 alone saw a record 163 resignations. It is the highest number since the May 2025 conflict with Pakistan.
Sources suggest that the wave of resignations follows the IAF’s reported decision not to officially acknowledge pilots killed during the conflict. This is as they even deny them military funerals.
Reports further indicate that the families of the deceased were reportedly placed under close supervision for six months.
This was allegedly to prevent information contradicting the official narrative from emerging.
No issue with Rafale, but with Indian pilots flying them: French Commander
Previously, after the US, a French Commander has also confirmed that Pakistan shot down Indian Rafale jets on the night of May 6 and 7. And that there is no issue with the jets, but with the Indian pilots flying them.
Reports from around the world continue to emerge about India’s defeat in its conflict with Pakistan.
Armed forces across the world closely monitored the aerial clash between Pakistan and India in May.
The rare engagement allowed many militaries to assess the performance of pilots, fighter jets, and missile systems.
Speaking to the media, Captain Yves Launay, commander of a naval air base in northwestern France, said the issue was “not with the Rafale aircraft, but with the Indian pilots flying them.”
This base is known for its squadron of over 40 nuclear-capable Rafale fighters. Captain Launay oversees 94 naval warships, 10 nuclear submarines and 190 fighter aircraft.
He has flown Rafale jets for 25 years and has undertaken major missions in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
