Tom Cooper Labels India’s Victory Over Pakistan as “Clear-Cut”

Reputable Austrian combat aviation historian Tom Cooper has offered his thoughts on the current war between India and Pakistan, describing India’s campaign as a “clear-cut victory“. His analysis, widely followed by military experts and policymakers, highlights India’s strategic dominance in the four-day confrontation that culminated in a ceasefire on May 10, 2025.

India’s Tactical Superiority

Cooper, known for his expertise in aerial warfare, pointed out that India’s missile strikes crippled Pakistan’s air bases, including Nur Khan and Sargodha. He emphasized that Pakistan lacked the retaliatory capability to counter India’s BrahMos and SCALP-EG missiles, which played a decisive role in the conflict.

“When one side is bombing nuclear weapons storage facilities of the other, and the other has no ability to retaliate left, then that’s a clear-cut victory in my books,” Cooper stated in his blog. His remarks challenge the Western media’s portrayal of the conflict, which he criticized for its biased coverage.

Pakistan’s Ceasefire Move

According to Cooper, Pakistan’s Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) reached out to his Indian counterpart to initiate a ceasefire, signaling Islamabad’s military disadvantage. While Pakistan’s leadership framed the ceasefire as a diplomatic success, Cooper’s assessment suggests it was a forced move due to India’s overwhelming firepower.

Global Reactions on Tom Copper Comments

Cooper’s comments have sparked discussions among defense analysts, with India’s ruling party, BJP, highlighting his expertise. BJP IT Department head Amit Malviya stated, “Tom Cooper is one of the most respected combat aviation historians in the world… So when he calls India’s air campaign a clear-cut victory, the world listens”.

As India continues to strengthen its defense capabilities, Cooper’s analysis reinforces the perception of India’s strategic military edge in the region. His insights provide a compelling narrative on the changing dynamics of South Asian warfare, positioning India as a dominant force in aerial combat.