Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu on Sunday reaffirmed the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) commitment to strengthening its capabilities in electronic warfare, cyber technologies, space, and indigenous defence production, saying these advancements are vital to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty.
The air chief was addressing the central Martyrs’ Day ceremony at Air Headquarters in Islamabad as the nation observed Air Force Day to honor the sacrifices of PAF martyrs.
In his remarks, ACM Sidhu highlighted the “extraordinary bravery, professionalism, and spirit of sacrifice” that have defined the force since its inception. “PAF remains fully aware of the rapidly changing security environment and is determined to stay ahead with clarity of purpose and mission,” he said, adding that the force would continue to push forward in niche defence domains.
The ceremony began with special prayers and Quranic recitation for the martyrs of the 1965 and 1971 wars, as well as all those who laid down their lives in the line of duty. ACM Sidhu, serving as chief guest, laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered fateha, paying tribute to the fallen heroes.
Conflict with India Recalled
Referring to recent hostilities with India, Sidhu said the PAF once again proved its will and capability during Marka-i-Haq / Bunyanum Marsoos, when the air force downed six Indian jets following New Delhi’s airstrikes in May. Retaliatory strikes on both sides led to intense escalations, which only subsided after U.S. intervention on May 10 brought about a ceasefire.
During Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations last month, the government conferred 488 awards on the martyrs of the conflict, including eight Sitara-i-Jurat, seven Sitara-i-Basalat, 23 Tamgha-i-Basalat, and 79 Imtiazi Sanads.
National Leadership Pays Tribute
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both paid glowing tributes to the PAF, praising its decisive role in May’s conflict and its long history of valor.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the PAF’s superior strategy and fearless leadership had astonished the world. “Our air force defeated an enemy many times larger, proving that no amount of firepower can ever crush passion and courage,” he remarked, adding that the sacrifices of PAF martyrs “shine brightly in the nation’s history.”
President Zardari echoed similar sentiments, recalling the extraordinary performance of PAF pilots during the 1965 war and their unmatched contribution in the recent conflict. “From the skies of 1965 to Marka-i-Haq, our air warriors have always risen to the challenge and defended Pakistan with honor,” he said, paying tribute to both martyrs and their families.
Symbol of National Pride
The air chief also released a new patriotic song titled “Shaheen” to mark Defence and Air Force Day, underscoring the PAF’s identity as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.
“Every generation of the PAF carries forward the spirit of sacrifice and excellence,” ACM Sidhu said, promising that the air force would continue its mission to protect Pakistan’s aerial frontiers with unwavering resolve.
