Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its professional capabilities, sacrifices and contribution to the defence of Pakistan, saying the force has repeatedly demonstrated its strength and preparedness during times of conflict.
In a message issued on Pakistan Air Force Day, observed every year on September 7, the prime minister said the PAF had demonstrated “professional capability, prowess and dominance in Aerial Conflicts” throughout its history.
PM Pays Tribute to PAF Martyrs
Shehbaz Sharif said the PAF has a proud history marked by courage, professionalism and sacrifice, adding that its personnel have consistently responded to the nation’s call in difficult circumstances.
Recalling the 1965 war, the prime minister praised PAF pilots for defending Pakistan’s airspace with determination and courage.
He said the resolve demonstrated by PAF aviators in September 1965 helped protect the country’s aerial frontiers, while many personnel made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
The prime minister paid tribute to those who lost their lives in defence of the country, describing their sacrifices as a matter of national honour.
Pakistan observes Air Force Day on September 7 to commemorate the role played by the PAF during the 1965 war. The occasion forms part of commemorations associated with Defence and Martyrs’ Day, which remember the military conflict between Pakistan and India.
PAF Role in Marka-e-Haq Highlighted
The prime minister also referred to the PAF’s role in Marka-e-Haq, describing its performance during the May 2025 confrontation with India as another example of the force’s operational capabilities.
According to Shehbaz, the PAF worked in coordination with Pakistan’s other armed services during the conflict. He credited the force’s performance to effective leadership, detailed planning, combat skills and the coordinated use of modern warfare capabilities.
“In the same vein, last year in May 2025, when the aggressor once again challenged a peace-loving country, the Pakistan Air Force, in perfect synergy with Sister Services, defeated the adversary during Marka-e-Haq,” he said.
He specifically praised the “bold leadership” of the PAF, the tactical skills of its combat crews and the planning that supported military operations.
‘Never be mistaken for weakness’: Forces reaffirm Pakistan’s defence readiness
Focus on Modern Warfare Capabilities
Shehbaz said the PAF’s performance also reflected the importance of modernisation and indigenisation in strengthening Pakistan’s defence capabilities.
He highlighted the coordinated use of what he described as “Multi-Domain Warfare Capabilities”, saying these capabilities had contributed to the force’s ability to respond effectively to emerging security challenges.
The prime minister said the nation was proud of the PAF’s long-standing reputation for facing challenging circumstances and maintaining its operational readiness.
PM Expresses Confidence in PAF
On Air Force Day, Shehbaz Sharif also extended his best wishes for the continued professional development and progress of the Pakistan Air Force.
He expressed confidence that the force would remain prepared to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and aerial frontiers whenever required.
“I am sure, as always, Pakistan Air Force will rise to any possible occasion to defend sovereignty and aerial frontiers of Pakistan,” he said.
The prime minister concluded his message by paying tribute to the PAF’s personnel and martyrs and expressing his confidence in the force’s continued service to the country.
“Pakistan Air Force Zindabad! Pakistan Paindabad!” he said.
