ISLAMABAD:Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended all ranks of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for their outstanding performance throughout its professional history.

In a message on Pakistan Air Force Day, observed on September 7, the prime minister said that the PAF had demonstrated its professional capability, prowess and dominance in aerial conflicts for decades.

“Pakistan Air Force has indeed displayed its professional capability, prowess and dominance in aerial conflicts for decades. This distinguished organisation has a proud history of sacrifice, valour and professionalism and has always responded to the nation’s call with profound courage,” he said.

The prime minister said that in September 1965, the passion and resolve of PAF aviators to safeguard Pakistan’s aerial frontiers had made them victorious in the vastness of the skies.

“They laid down their precious lives in defence of the motherland. It is certainly a national honour to pay glowing tributes to the Shuhada for their supreme sacrifices,” he added.

He said that, in the same vein, in May 2025, when the aggressor once again challenged the peace-loving country, the PAF, in perfect synergy with the sister services, defeated the adversary during Marka-i-Haq.

He attributed the success to bold leadership, the tactical brilliance of combat crews, excellent planning and the well-orchestrated employment of multi-domain warfare capabilities acquired in recent years through a comprehensive strategy of modernisation and indigenisation.

“The nation is proud that Pakistan Air Force once again upheld the glorious legacy of fighting valiantly, which has always been its hallmark,” he said.

“On this special day, I wish continued professional success and progress to Pakistan Air Force. I am sure that, as always, Pakistan Air Force will rise to any possible occasion to defend the sovereignty and aerial frontiers of Pakistan,” the prime minister added.

Published in Dawn, September 7th, 2026