Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has been moved to a fortified bunker within the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, CNN-News18 has exclusively learned, following India’s high-precision strikes on the Nur Khan Airbase during Operation Sindoor.
Sources say the relocation reflects not only a tactical response but also the psychological impact of India’s deep-penetration capability on Pakistan’s military leadership. Munir’s temporary sheltering underscores a heightened sense of insecurity within the Pakistani top brass, with reports now indicating that his operational base will be shifted to mitigate future vulnerabilities.
The Nur Khan Airbase—just 10 km from Islamabad and home to Pakistan’s Air Mobility Command—was among the key targets struck by India in response to a series of coordinated attacks by Pakistan on India’s military installations as well as civilian infrastructure. According to satellite imagery from Chinese firm MIZAZVISION and India’s Kawa Space, the base suffered severe structural damage, including destroyed fuel trucks, a compromised warehouse roof, and debris scattered near the runway.
The airbase houses critical assets such as Saab Erieye surveillance systems, IL-78 refuelling aircraft, and C-130 transporters. A C-130B/E was visibly damaged in the attack, significantly impacting Pakistan’s aerial logistics and VIP mobility.
Between 8 and 10 May, IAF fighter jets struck 11 military air bases across Pakistan in a coordinated, precision-led campaign. “Within 3 hours, 11 bases were attacked, including Nur Khan, Rafiqui, Murid, Sukkur, Sialkot, Pasrur, Chunian, Sargodha, Skaru, Bholari and Jacobabad,” DGMO Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai said in a press briefing.
India’s ability to target such a vital military installation has reportedly shaken Pakistan’s defence establishment. Following the strike, Pakistan temporarily closed its airspace amid fears of further escalation. CNN-News18 had earlier reported that Pakistan urgently convened its Command and Control Authority following India’s strikes — a key step that eventually paved the way for the ceasefire.
Security analysts now speculate that Islamabad may relocate key command centres to minimise exposure, a move that reflects the depth of the strategic blow delivered by Operation Sindoor.
