PAF Chief ACM Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu's Vision to lead PAF's transformation in a formidable Force #PAFProfessionalism

Dedicated to Father of the Nation #qaideazam #Jinnah

Today, we commemorate the birthday of Air Vice-Marshal Eric Gordon Hall, a trailblazing figure in Pakistan Air Force history. Born on October 12, 1922, he was a distinguished bomber and fighter pilot who left an enduring impact on military aviation, serving as Vice Chief of Air Staff and playing a pivotal role in the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1947, 1965 and 1971. He also spearheaded atomic weapon research as Director-General of the PAF’s Air Force Science Research Laboratories. His innovative approach, leadership and courage have inspired future generations, cementing his legacy as a remarkable military leader and a testament to his enduring impact on Pakistan's history. #PAF #EricGordonHall #bomber #AirViceMarshal

Air Chief Marshal Anwar Shamim, a highly decorated officer of Pakistan Air Force, was born on 01 October 1931. He actively participated in the Indo-Pak War of 1965 and 1971. As Chief of the Air Staff, he transformed Pakistan Air Force on modern lines by inducting the F-16 Fighting Falcons, Chinese A-5 aircraft & state of the art Air Defence System and creating Regional Air Commands. In 1968, he also served as Air Adviser to King Hussain Bin Talal in Jordan, reforming the Jordanian Air Force. Throughout his illustrious career, he received numerous national and international awards as a testament to his extra-ordinary leadership capabilities. #AirChiefAnwarShamim #PakistanAirForce #PAF #F-16 #FightingFalcon

On September 29, 1998, Pakistan Air Force achieved a significant milestone with the arrival of its first two Mirage-V EF (ROSE-II) aircraft, delivered from France to Minhas Air Base. This delivery was a key component of the ROSE (Retrofit of Strike Element) project, aimed at enhancing the avionics and capabilities of Mirage fleet. The ROSE-II upgrade introduced advanced features, including a forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor, improved navigation and attack systems and modern cockpit displays, greatly enhancing operational effectiveness. By integrating these aircraft into its arsenal, PAF not only enhanced its strike capabilities but also highlighted Pakistan's commitment to modernizing its air force through both indigenous upgrades and international defence collaboration. #PakistanAirForce #MirageVEF #ROSEProject #PAF

On 16 September 1965, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) marked a groundbreaking moment in military aviation by employing its C-130 Hercules transport aircraft in bombing missions, demonstrating extraordinary innovation and bravery. Under the leadership of Air Commodore (Retd) Viqar Abidi, the courageous crew took on the formidable challenge of penetrating enemy lines and executing devastating strikes against enemy armour. The concept of transforming the C-130 into a heavy bomber was initially proposed by Group Captain Eric Hall and after successful trials, PAF leadership approved live bombing missions. On that historic day, C-130s launched from Peshawar, unleashing a barrage of explosives that decimated enemy tanks and artillery in the Chawinda sector. This bold action not only showcased the PAF tactical flexibility and ingenuity but also highlighted the courage of its air warriors. #PakistanAirForce #PAFHistory #C130Hercules #IndoPakWar1965

Today, we honour Squadron Leader Muniruddin Ahmed's indomitable spirit and sacrifice, reflecting on a defining moment in Pakistan Air Force history during the 1965 War. On September 11, 1965, Muniruddin exhibited extraordinary bravery during a critical mission against the Amritsar Radar station. As he and his fellow F-86 Sabre pilots approached their target, enemy guns unleashed a fierce barrage. Undeterred, Muniruddin made crucial last-minute adjustments for the attack. Amidst relentless enemy fire and exploding shells, his focus and precision remained unwavering as he executed his strike with unmatched determination. In a poignant display of heroism, as Muniruddin pulled up from the attack, an enemy shell struck his aircraft. Calmly reporting, "I am hit," his final transmission was cut short. Initially declared missing in action, his bravery was later immortalised with the Sitara-e-Jurat, Pakistan’s third-highest military decoration for gallantry. Muniruddin's ultimate sacrifice epitomises the courage and dedication of PAF air warriors in defending the sovereignty of nation. #PakistanAirForce #1965War #PAFHero #SitaraeJurat

The legendary PAF fighter pilot Air Marshal (R) Dilawar Hussain will forever be honoured for his remarkable valour and professionalism. Born in Quetta on September 8, 1940, he was commissioned into the PAF in March 1962. During the 1965 Indo-Pak War, he distinguished himself with No. 19 Squadron at PAF Base, Peshawar, where his formation delivered a decisive blow to Indian forces by destroying 14 aircraft at Pathankot Airfield. His extraordinary bravery and commitment were recognised with the prestigious Sitara-i-Juraat. Dilawar Hussain’s legacy as an exceptional fighter pilot and war hero continues to inspire generations. #PAF #1965WarHero #DilawarHussain #PakistanAirForce #FighterPilot

Flt Lt Ziauddin Hassan, born on 22 August 1939 in Bogra, East Bengal, graduated Royal Pakistan Air Force College Risalpur in January 1962 as operational navigator. He participated in numerous bombing missions deep inside enemy territory in the 1965 war and earned the reputation of buoyant young navigator of No 7 Sqn. Ziauddin Hassan was awarded Sitara e Jurrat for his professionalism, courage and determination in the air operations against enemy airfields. On 19 March 1971, Hassan, along with pilot Flt Lt Tariq, embraced shahadat in line of duty as their aircraft crashed just before landing approximately eleven miles short of Masroor airfield. #FltLtZiauddin Hassan#Shaheed#SitaraeJurrat

Commemorating the 53rd martyrdom of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas. His bravery and sacrifice remain a powerful symbol of patriotism and honor. #RashidMinhas #Martyrdom #PAF

Two Rafale jets collided mid-air in eastern France on August 14, 2024, marking a rare accident involving these advanced military aircraft. The collision occurred over Colombey-les-Belles in northeastern France, resulting in the death of one instructor and a student pilot, while another pilot managed to eject safely. The cause of the collision remains unclear. The supersonic Rafale, renowned for its versatility in missions such as air superiority, ground strikes, reconnaissance and the carrying of nuclear warheads, has become a key asset for the French arms industry. Despite its sophisticated design and extensive international use by countries including Egypt, India, Greece, Indonesia, Croatia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates accidents involving the Rafale are exceptionally rare. #RafaleCollision #SupersonicJets #FrenchAirForce #RafaleJet

Aerial exercises are crucial for advancing military capabilities and enhancing international defence cooperation. Indus Shield 2023 is a significant multinational air exercise organized by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) at one of its key operational bases. The exercise brings together aviation experts from 14 countries: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, Oman, Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Morocco, Uzbekistan, China, Hungary and Pakistan. It serves to enhance defence partnerships and showcase the PAF’s operational capabilities. Indus Shield provides a vital platform for participants to engage in realistic combat simulations, exchange tactical expertise and foster mutual understanding. Through this exercise, the PAF and its international counterparts aim to improve interoperability and strengthen collaborative defence efforts. #IndusShield #PakistanAirForce #AerialExercise #PAFExercises

U.S. Air Force F-22A Raptors from the 27th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and Royal Australian Air Force F-35A Lightning IIs from the 75th Squadron conducted hot pit refuels at RAAF Base Curtin, Australia. This Agile Employment concept, designed to expedite refueling, showcased seamless integration and efficient collaboration between the two forces in a remote location. The operation, involving precise logistics by both U.S. and RAAF personnel, demonstrated the ability to deploy and operate effectively from austere bases. This exercise not only tested techniques for non-standard locations but also reinforced the strategic readiness and interoperability of the U.S. and Australian forces in the Indo-Pacific region. #F22ARaptor #F35ALightningII #RAAF #HotPitRefuel #USAF

We pay tribute to Wing Commander Zeeshan Atta, Officer Commanding of the 18th Squadron, Pakistan Air Force, on the 7th anniversary of his martyrdom. A devoted leader and aviator, Wing Commander Atta tragically lost his life in an F-7P aircraft crash near Sabzazar in Mianwali. His funeral was a moving tribute attended by numerous PAF officers, local citizens, traders and journalists. Wing Commander Zeeshan Atta's sacrifice stands as a powerful reminder of the inherent risks faced by those who serve with unwavering courage and dedication, inspiring us to honor his memory and legacy. #WingCommanderZeeshanAtta #PAFHero #AviationHero

@JyothishPailla @Saju__302 @DGPR_PAF @Defence_IDA @ACEofPAF @SecondtononePAF @Defence_PK99 @Raad_Pak @zarrar_11PK @FierceDragons @amarshadmalik

Today marks the 36th anniversary of the first aerial duel between the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the Soviet Air Force. On August 4, 1988, a Soviet SU-25, an advanced fighter bomber, engaged in a fierce dogfight with a Pakistani F-16 over Pakistan's territory. The confrontation ended with the SU-25 being shot down and its pilot Colonel Rudskoi Alexander Vladimirovich, who also served as the Inspector of SU-25s in Afghanistan, was captured and taken as a prisoner of war. Colonel Rudskoi was eventually returned to Soviet authorities on August 16, 1988. The F-16 pilot, Squadron Leader Athar Bukhari of No 14 Squadron, was supported by the adept radar guidance of Squadron Leader Taufiq Raja. This encounter exemplified the high level of pilot-controller coordination and remains a pivotal event in the annals of aerial combat. #TodayinPAFHistory #PAF #PakistanAirForce #F16

Taiwan’s fighter pilots are set to gain substantial advantages from the continuation of the F-16 training simulators program offered by the US division of CAE, a Canadian modeling developer This contract modification, valued at over $35 million (T$1.15 billion), increases the cumulative value of the Foreign Military Sale through the US Department of Defence to $58.29 million. The project will take place in Arlington, Texas, with an expected completion date of April 30, 2026. The US provided various F-16 spare and repair parts, as well as infrared search and track systems over a year ago. Taiwan’s Air Force, which operates 140 F-16s acquired more than 25 years ago, upgraded its fleet to the Viper or Block 70/72 configuration earlier this year. #TaiwanAirForce #F16Simulators #US #CAE

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has played a vital and strategic role in countering militancy, with Operation Zarb-e-Azb being a prime example. Operating in the challenging terrains of North and South Waziristan, where ground operations were often impractical, the PAF carried out numerous aerial strikes that dismantled key militant hideouts and infrastructure. By targeting strongholds and networks of groups like the Taliban and al-Qaeda and using precision-guided munitions along with thorough aerial surveillance, the PAF effectively minimized collateral damage. It focused on militant positions while ensuring civilian safety through careful evacuation procedures. This strategic use of aerial power, combined with ground operations, was vital in eliminating threats and securing volatile regions, highlighting the PAF’s pivotal role in national security. #PakistanAirForce #PAF #OperationZarbEAzb #CounterTerrorism #NationalSecurity

In July 2017, Pakistan marked a significant achievement in its defence history by signing an agreement to sell 10 Super Mushshak aircraft to the Azerbaijan Air Force. The contract, formalized in Azerbaijan by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra, highlighted Pakistan's commitment to fostering international military collaboration. The agreement encompassed not only the transfer of aircraft but also included vital operational training and technical support for the Azerbaijani military. This deal highlighted Pakistan's growing influence and expertise in the global defence sector. #Pakistan #SuperMushshak #Azerbaijan #PAF #PACKamra

The unsung Hero of the Pakistan, Najeeb Ahmad Khan, known as "8-Pass Charlie," earned a legendary reputation for his relentless bombing raids on Adampur Airbase. His unique approach involved making eight bombing passes on selected targets during each raid, dropping one bomb per pass with exceptional precision. Instead of dropping his full load of 4,000 lbs in one go, he meticulously targeted each site with a 500 lb bomb, showcasing both his strategic ingenuity and bravery. This method not only displayed his skill in outmaneuvering anti-aircraft defenses but also impressed his Indian adversaries, who coined the name "8-Pass Charlie" in recognition of his audacious tactics. His legacy endures as a symbol of courage and tactical excellence in aerial warfare. #PAF #PAFourPride

The Indo-Pak War of 1965 highlights the strategic impact of airpower, emphasizing the importance of air superiority. During the conflict, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operated American-supplied F-104 Starfighters, F-86 Sabres, B-57 bombers and RB-57 reconnaissance aircraft. Anticipating hostilities, then Air Chief Air Marshal Nur Khan put the PAF on high alert before the war began. This foresight, along with effective leadership and professionalism, was key in countering the numerically superior Indian Air Force (IAF). Despite a 3:1 force ratio, the PAF’s superior training and tactics allowed it to outmanoeuvre the larger IAF. By the war end, the IAF had lost 66 aircraft, while the PAF lost 12 F-86s, 1 F-104 and 3 B-57s. The PAF's performance highlighted its ability to stand against a larger foe, reflecting a legacy of excellence rooted in leadership, technology and training. This enduring legacy continues to ensure the security of Pakistan’s skies. #1965 #PakistanAirForce #AirPower #PAFLegacy