Former PAF Chief Sohail Aman Warns of Devastating and Prolonged War, Stresses Preparedness and Diplomacy

Karachi: Retired Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman has cautioned that any potential war could be devastating and prolonged, emphasizing the critical importance of preparedness, technology, and strategic diplomacy. Speaking at the closing session of a two-day Future Summit in Karachi, he stressed that while he hopes diplomacy succeeds, the nation must be ready for all scenarios.

“Today, the world is transparent enough that India cannot hide its failures. My heartfelt prayer is that war never happens, and diplomacy succeeds. But if it does, it will be destructive and long, and there may be no mediator to intervene,” said Aman.

He highlighted that enemies have learned lessons from past conflicts and may seek retaliation, making readiness essential. Aman stressed the need for joint strategies among the army, navy, and air force, with technology and artificial intelligence playing a key role.

“Air power is the most effective tool to achieve political objectives. A short battle of an hour or even ten minutes can bring down seven aircraft, demonstrating the impact of air power. Achieving this took the Pakistan Air Force 20 years,” he said, adding that responsibility and ownership are crucial.

Aman elaborated that the PAF has long recognized that every war begins in the air, making air power the most immediate and influential force. Continuity in policy and respect for previous decisions have been key to institutional growth.

He noted Pakistan’s strategic location, surrounded by Central Asia, Iran, Afghanistan, China, and Russia, while facing a long-standing ideological challenge from India. Reflecting on past conflicts, Aman stressed that the country must make decisions in line with national interest rather than external agendas.

“The nation suffered by participating in others’ conflicts. For instance, when Pakistan decided not to join the war in Yemen, it was a wise choice that prioritized national interest over expectations from allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” he said.

Aman also warned that internal instability and terrorism fueled by India-Afghanistan links could harm the country, stressing that effective diplomacy is critical to reducing regional tensions. He called for reviewing defense policies, strengthening institutions, modernizing training, and collaborating with friends like China and Turkey to achieve self-reliance.

Concluding, Aman said, “We all are sons and daughters of this soil and want our homeland to prosper. But all progress depends on security. Preparing for war, if it comes, ensures peace and prosperity in the country.”