From Uri to Sky Force: 8 Films and Series About India’s Military Air Strikes in Pakistan
Over the past few years, Indian cinema and OTT platforms have boldly portrayed the valor of the Indian Armed Forces, especially during the air strikes and military operations in response to terror threats from across the border. From action-packed thrillers to emotionally stirring dramas, these films and series offer a powerful blend of reality and cinematic brilliance.
Here's a list of 8 must-watch war dramas and action thrillers based on India’s air strikes in Pakistan, along with their IMDb ratings and where you can stream them.
1. Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
IMDb Rating: ★7.9/10 Where to Watch: Zee5
One of the most impactful war films in Indian cinema, Uri is based on the 2016 Indian Army’s surgical strike on Pakistan. Vicky Kaushal delivers a memorable performance as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill. The film’s famous line — "How’s the josh?" — became a nationwide slogan. Its slick action, gripping narrative, and patriotic spirit make it a must-watch.
2. Avrodh: The Siege Within (2020)
IMDb Rating: ★7.6/10 Where to Watch: SonyLIV
Inspired by a chapter from the book India’s Most Fearless, this web series presents a detailed account of the planning and execution of the 2016 surgical strikes. Unlike Uri, Avrodh is more procedural and less cinematic, giving viewers an inside look at strategic military planning and political involvement.
3. Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)
IMDb Rating: ★5.3/10 Where to Watch: Netflix
While not directly linked to Pakistan air strikes, this inspiring biopic showcases the journey of Gunjan Saxena, one of India’s first female combat pilots who flew into the war zone during the 1999 Kargil War. Janhvi Kapoor portrays her courage and determination, breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated battlefield.
4. Rakshak: India’s Brave Chapter 2 (2023)
IMDb Rating: ★7.2/10 Where to Watch: Amazon miniTV
This anthology series is based on true incidents from the Indian Armed Forces. Chapter 2 focuses on modern air defense and surgical operations along the border. It’s a gripping narrative that portrays unsung heroes, combining dramatized retellings with real military valor.
5. Ranneeti: Balakot and Beyond (2024)
IMDb Rating: ★7.8/10 Where to Watch: JioCinema
Set against the backdrop of the 2019 Balakot airstrike, Ranneeti delves into the behind-the-scenes decisions and intelligence strategies that led to the historic event. This political-military thriller balances intense action with high-level diplomacy, offering a holistic view of how war decisions are made.
6. Fighter (2024)
IMDb Rating: ★6.9/10 Where to Watch: Netflix
Directed by Siddharth Anand, Fighter is India’s first true-blue aerial action film starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. Loosely inspired by post-Pulwama air combat missions, the film features breathtaking dogfights, intense patriotism, and edge-of-the-seat drama. Though fictional, it evokes real emotions and national pride.
7. Operation Valentine (2024)
IMDb Rating: ★6.8/10 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Starring Varun Tej, this bilingual Telugu-Hindi film is inspired by real aerial combat missions and the Balakot strike. With high-octane aerial action sequences and a compelling emotional storyline, the movie salutes the bravery of the Indian Air Force. It is one of the few films to focus exclusively on air combat.
8. Sky Force (2024)
IMDb Rating: ★6.9/10 Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Directed by: Abhishek Anil Kapoor & Sandeep Kewlani
Starring Akshay Kumar and Veer Pahadia, Sky Force tells the untold story of India’s first air operation against Pakistan in 1965. This gripping war drama brings to light the courage and strategy behind the Indian Air Force’s historic assault during a time of high tension. With powerful performances and an emotional core, Sky Force is a tribute to the bravery of unsung heroes and marks a pivotal moment in India’s military history.
India’s military operations and counter-terrorism strikes have not only safeguarded national integrity but also inspired generations. These films and series stand as cinematic tributes to our heroes in uniform. Whether you're looking for edge-of-your-seat thrillers or emotional war dramas, these 8 titles offer powerful storytelling rooted in courage, sacrifice, and honor.