SOURCE: AFI
A viral image of a Mahindra XUV3OO bearing the tag “Ex-Balakot Air Strike Team” on its rear windshield has taken social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by storm. The photo, which appears to have been clicked on an Indian street, has led to a wave of admiration, curiosity, and caution among netizens.
While many users expressed pride and reverence for the individual associated with one of India’s most significant military operations in recent history—the 2019 Balakot air strikes—others raised concerns about the implications of publicly flaunting such a sensitive affiliation.
The Balakot air strike, carried out on February 26, 2019, was a retaliatory air raid conducted by the Indian Air Force in response to the Pulwama terror attack. It marked the first time since the 1971 Indo-Pak war that Indian jets crossed the Line of Control (LoC), targeting a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist training camp in Pakistan.
The tag on the XUV3OO seems to be a form of personal commemoration or display of pride by a veteran or individual closely associated with the mission. However, several users were quick to point out the potential security risks of such a public declaration.
“Commendable service, no doubt,” one user posted. “But putting a tag like that in cities where sleeper cells have previously operated might be inviting unnecessary attention or danger.”
India has long cherished its armed forces, and tributes to military personnel—through flags, stickers, and vehicle decals—are not uncommon. The viral image adds to that tradition, albeit with a controversial edge. Unlike generic tags such as “Proud Army Family” or “Veteran,” the explicit reference to a covert military operation has made this instance particularly sensitive.
Some defense enthusiasts and veterans also chimed in, noting that operational security (OpSec) is crucial, even after retirement. “It’s a matter of pride, yes,” said one retired IAF officer, “but discretion is equally important when it comes to elite or classified missions. There are always threats—known and unknown.”
As of now, there has been no official statement from the Indian Air Force or the Ministry of Defence on the incident. It remains unclear whether the individual in question was directly involved in the Balakot strike or is using the tag symbolically.
Some social media users also suggested that the tag might not be authentic and urged caution before jumping to conclusions. Regardless of its authenticity, the viral image has reignited discussions around how veterans and service members display their military associations—and the thin line between pride and prudence in doing so.
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