Pakistan observes Air Force Day to pay tribute to valour and sacrifices of PAF heroes

Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan Air Force Day is being marked nationwide today, as people across the country remember the courage and sacrifices of PAF personnel and reaffirm their determination to defend Pakistan’s airspace.

Marked every year on September 7, PAF Day honours the courage of officers and airmen who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty and those who defended Pakistan’s skies against Indian aggression during the 1965 war.

It also highlights the Pakistan Air Force’s distinguished history and its continued role in securing the nation’s aerial borders.

The PAF’s contribution to the 1965 war, as well as its performance during Marka-e-Haq in May 2025, remains a testament to its operational strength, combat readiness and professional capabilities.

During the 1965 conflict, Pakistani fighter pilots, despite operating with comparatively limited resources, successfully countered Indian air attacks and dealt a major blow to the opposing forces. Their actions reflected exceptional command of aerial warfare, determination and courage under pressure.

Among the prominent figures from that war was PAF ace Muhammad Mahmood Alam, better known as M. M. Alam, who achieved a remarkable feat by shooting down five Indian Air Force Hawker Hunter Mk. 56 fighter aircraft in less than a minute.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have lauded the Pakistan Air Force for its exceptional record and achievements throughout its professional history.

In their separate messages issued on Pakistan Air Force Day today (Monday), both leaders said the country remains proud of the PAF for repeatedly demonstrating its operational capability, professional expertise and superiority in aerial engagements over the decades.

President Zardari said that the pioneers of the PAF built an "elite organisation in line with Quaid's vision of an air force being second to none and developed it accordingly, pursuing excellence in all domains."
"We are proud that PAF has amply displayed its capability, professional prowess and dominance in aerial conflicts over decades," he said.

Referring to the air force’s notable achievements during Marka-e-Haq in May last year, President Zardari expressed pride that the PAF had once again demonstrated its longstanding tradition of confronting and overcoming larger opposing forces.

"Undoubtedly, our heroes in blue proved through their heroism that no matter how strong and resourceful the enemy is, it can never undermine our will and resolve," he said, adding that he was confident that PAF would rise to the occasion and defend sovereignty and aerial frontiers of Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also praised the PAF’s longstanding record, saying, "Pakistan Air Force has indeed displayed its professional capability, prowess and dominance in aerial conflicts for decades."

The prime minister paid tribute to the PAF’s role in the 1965 war with India, highlighting the bravery of those who defended the country’s airspace and sacrificed their lives for the protection of the motherland.

"The nation is proud that Pakistan Air Force once again upheld the glorious legacy of fighting the outnumbered, which has always been its hallmark," he added.

"I am sure, as always, Pakistan Air Force will rise to any possible occasion to defend sovereignty and aerial frontiers of Pakistan," PM Shehbaz said.