Air Force Day being observed across the country

Air Force Day is being observed on Sunday, with ceremonies and events across the country to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during the 1965 war.

As part of the commemorations, PAF contingents will visit the grave of national hero Rashid Minhas Shaheed to lay a wreath and present a salute in his honor.

Air Force Day is marked annually to remember the decisive aerial battles of the 1965 war, when PAF pilots, despite being outnumbered, inflicted heavy losses on the Indian Air Force and safeguarded Pakistan’s airspace.

One of the most remarkable feats of the war was recorded on September 7, 1965, when Squadron Leader Muhammad Mahmood Alam (M.M. Alam) shot down five Indian Hunter aircraft in minutes, four of them within just 30 seconds. The record remains unmatched in the history of aerial combat.

The PAF also launched successful strikes on Indian air bases at Pathankot, Halwara, and Jamnagar, crippling enemy operations at the very onset of the conflict. Its support on the Lahore and Sialkot fronts proved decisive in repelling Indian ground offensives.

In early May, during the Pakistan-India clash escalating since Pahalgam attack, Pakistan Air Force shot down Indian fighter jets before a ceasefire was brokered by US President Donald Trump.

Officials say the day serves as a reminder of the PAF’s legacy of valor and its continued readiness to defend Pakistan’s skies. Ceremonies held nationwide highlight the sacrifices of air force personnel and the resilience of the nation in times of conflict.

At Air Headquarters, Islamabad, a central Martyrs’ Day Ceremony was held, where Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Source: DGPR (Air Force) X post

President, PM praise Pakistan Air Force

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its vital role in safeguarding the country’s skies in the 1965 war.

In his message, President Zardari lauded the PAF’s sacrifices and heroism, saying the day was not only about recalling past victories but also about honoring the enduring spirit of service and devotion that defines the force. “My heart goes out in deep respect to our martyrs and ghazis whose courage and sacrifices continue to inspire the nation,” he said.

Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan, shares a message with the country on Air Force Day.

He recalled how, against overwhelming odds in 1965, PAF pilots displayed extraordinary bravery and determination, writing an unforgettable chapter in history. Referring to both the 1965 war and later operations, including Marka-e-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos, the president noted that air warriors had always risen to the challenge, delivering a decisive response to the enemy and instilling pride in the nation.

Highlighting the PAF’s modern capabilities, President Zardari said the world had witnessed its remarkable skill and professionalism, which he described as one of the strongest guarantees of Pakistan’s security. He expressed confidence that the air force would continue to defend the country’s sovereignty with the same resolve and passion.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, also praised the PAF for its professionalism and strength in air combat over the decades. He said the air force, working alongside other armed forces, had played a decisive role in operations such as Marka-e-Haq.

PM Shehbaz shares a message with the country on Air Force Day.

The prime minister added that Air Force Day serves as a reminder to future generations of the dedication, determination, and bravery of Pakistan’s air warriors in protecting the nation.