With S-400 in backdrop, how PM Modi fact-checked Pakistan

How PM Modi Used the S-400 to Publicly Fact-Check Pakistan’s Claims In a bold and highly symbolic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Adampur Air Base in Punjab on May 13, 2025, where he stood in front of a fully intact S-400 air defense missile system—visibly operational and undamaged. This unannounced visit came shortly after Pakistan claimed it had destroyed the S-400 system during a supposed strike on the airbase. Modi’s presence, alongside the high-profile military hardware, served as a powerful visual rebuttal to Pakistan’s narrative and demonstrated India’s readiness to counter misinformation with facts.

Backdrop: Pakistan’s Claims and the S-400’s Significance The controversy began when Pakistan released statements and videos on social media alleging that it had successfully targeted and destroyed India’s S-400 missile defense system in a strike on the Adampur Air Base. The S-400, officially named “Sudarshan Chakra” in Indian service, is among the most advanced air defense systems in the world, capable of detecting and neutralizing threats at long ranges. Acquired from Russia, the system is critical to India’s multi-layered air defense network and has been strategically deployed to shield vital installations. Given the high strategic value of the S-400, Pakistan’s claims sparked intense media speculation and concern. However, India quickly moved to dispel the rumors. The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit labeled Pakistan’s narrative as “fake news” and pointed out inconsistencies in the images and videos shared. PM Modi’s Tactical Rebuttal Rather than relying solely on press releases or official statements, Prime Minister Modi chose a far more direct and compelling method of fact-checking Pakistan’s claims: showing, not just telling. Landing at the very airbase Pakistan claimed to have bombed, Modi walked the tarmac alongside senior military officials. Cameras captured him standing beside the supposed target of the attack—the S-400 launcher—completely untouched and operational. A MiG-29 fighter jet, another alleged casualty of the claimed strike, was also prominently displayed. This move achieved several objectives: Disproving Pakistani Claims: The presence of the system in perfect condition served as irrefutable evidence against Pakistan’s assertions. Boosting Morale: For Indian citizens and the armed forces, the visit was a morale booster, signaling that the country’s defenses were intact and operational. Signaling Confidence: By appearing at the supposed strike site without prior security fanfare, Modi demonstrated confidence in India’s air defense capabilities. Broader Message: India’s Military Readiness and Strategic Clarity During his address at the base, PM Modi acknowledged the Indian armed forces for their recent efforts in Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory action following the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The operation had targeted terror infrastructure across the border, and its temporary pause was described by Modi as a strategic decision made in response to an appeal from Pakistan—not out of weakness. He reiterated India's stance that while it seeks peace, it will not hesitate to respond decisively to provocations. Modi also emphasized that the safety and security of the nation remain a top priority and that disinformation campaigns would be met with transparency and truth. Symbolism of the S-400 and Modi’s Political Messaging The choice to highlight the S-400 system was deliberate. As one of the crown jewels of India’s air defense apparatus, the S-400 represents India’s technological edge and its deepening defense partnerships, especially with Russia. Modi’s decision to turn it into a visual symbol of defiance sent a strong geopolitical message: To Pakistan: False claims and propaganda will be publicly dismantled with evidence. To the Indian public: The government remains in control and alert in times of conflict. To the world: India is capable of defending its sovereignty and countering both physical and informational warfare. Conclusion Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Adampur Air Base was not just a routine military inspection—it was a well-timed strategic message aimed at exposing disinformation, reaffirming India’s military capability, and reinforcing public trust. With the powerful S-400 system standing unscathed in the background, Modi didn’t just fact-check Pakistan with words—he did it with undeniable proof.