ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its long record of professionalism, courage and sacrifice, highlighting its role in protecting Pakistan’s aerial frontiers during major conflicts.
The prime minister made the remarks on Sunday while issuing a message to mark Pakistan Air Force Day, which is observed annually on September 7. The occasion commemorates the PAF’s role during the 1965 war and forms part of Pakistan’s wider Defence and Martyrs’ Day observances.
Shehbaz Sharif said the Pakistan Air Force had demonstrated its professional capabilities and combat strength over the decades, particularly during periods when the country faced military challenges.
PM Shehbaz Praises PAF’s Professional Record
In his message, the prime minister described the PAF as an institution with a distinguished history of sacrifice, bravery and professionalism.
He said the force had consistently answered the nation’s call and demonstrated courage when tasked with defending Pakistan.
Shehbaz emphasised that the PAF’s contribution extends beyond its operational role, saying the sacrifices made by its personnel have become an important part of the country’s national history.
The prime minister also highlighted the force’s performance in aerial conflicts and its continuing development in response to changes in modern warfare.
Tribute to PAF Personnel Who Sacrificed Their Lives
Recalling the September 1965 war, Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to PAF aviators who participated in the defence of Pakistan’s airspace.
He said the determination and resolve demonstrated by the air force personnel during the conflict represented a significant moment in the PAF’s history.
The prime minister also remembered those who lost their lives while serving the country, describing their sacrifices as a matter of national honour.
According to Shehbaz, the personnel who gave their lives in the defence of Pakistan left behind a legacy of courage and commitment that continues to inspire the nation.
Why Pakistan Observes Air Force Day on September 7
Pakistan observes Air Force Day on September 7 every year to commemorate the Pakistan Air Force’s role in the 1965 war.
The day is observed alongside national Defence and Martyrs’ Day commemorations, providing an opportunity to remember military personnel who participated in the conflict and those who made sacrifices in the service of the country.
For the Pakistan Air Force, September 7 carries particular historical significance because of the role its personnel played during the 1965 conflict.
This year, Prime Minister Shehbaz used the occasion to reflect on the PAF’s historical record while also highlighting its more recent operational capabilities.
Shehbaz Highlights PAF Role in Marka-e-Haq
The prime minister also referred to Marka-e-Haq, describing the confrontation with India that lasted from April 22 to May 10, 2025.
Shehbaz Sharif said the Pakistan Air Force played its role in coordination with the country’s other armed services during the confrontation.
He credited the PAF’s performance to leadership, careful planning, combat expertise and the use of modern warfare capabilities.
The prime minister said coordination among the armed services was an important component of Pakistan’s response during the confrontation.
Tactical Skills and Modern Warfare Capabilities
Shehbaz particularly praised what he described as the tactical abilities of PAF combat personnel.
He attributed the force’s performance during Marka-e-Haq to bold leadership, tactical brilliance, effective planning and coordinated use of multi-domain warfare capabilities.
According to the prime minister, these capabilities were developed through a process of modernisation and indigenisation.
His remarks highlighted the importance of technological advancement and operational preparedness in contemporary military conflicts.
The prime minister also linked the PAF’s recent capabilities with its historical reputation, saying the force had maintained its tradition of responding effectively when faced with difficult circumstances.
PAF’s Legacy of Facing Challenges
Shehbaz Sharif said the nation remained proud of the Pakistan Air Force and its longstanding record.
He highlighted what he described as the force’s legacy of confronting adversaries despite numerical challenges.
The prime minister said this tradition had remained a hallmark of the PAF throughout its history.
His message connected the sacrifices of PAF personnel in 1965 with the capabilities demonstrated during the 2025 confrontation, presenting both as important elements of the institution’s history.
PM Wishes PAF Continued Success
On Pakistan Air Force Day, Shehbaz Sharif also extended his best wishes for the force’s continued professional growth and development.
He expressed confidence that the PAF would remain prepared to respond to future challenges and continue protecting Pakistan’s sovereignty and aerial frontiers.
The prime minister said he was confident that the air force would rise to any occasion requiring it to defend the country.
His message concluded with expressions of support for the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan.
Pakistan Air Force DayHighlights Decades of Service
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message placed the Pakistan Air Force’s history within a broader timeline, from the 1965 war to the Marka-e-Haq confrontation of 2025.
His remarks focused on the sacrifices of PAF personnel, the professionalism of its officers and crews, and the development of modern capabilities.
As Pakistan observes Air Force Day on September 7, the occasion serves as a reminder of the role played by the PAF in the country’s defence and the sacrifices made by its personnel.
The prime minister’s message also emphasised the importance of continued professional development, modernisation and preparedness as the PAF looks toward future challenges.
