PAF Chief Warns: If Sovereignty is Challenged Again, Air Force Will Be Even Stronger

Risalpur: Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), stated that if Pakistan’s national sovereignty is challenged again, the enemy will face a significantly stronger and better-prepared PAF. He made these remarks while addressing the passing-out parade at PAF Academy Asghar Khan in Risalpur as the guest of honor.

Highlighting the participation of Saudi cadets at the academy, the Air Chief said it symbolizes strong friendship and cooperation between the two nations and their armed forces. “You have been entrusted with the sacred duty of defending the airspace of the motherland. The hopes of the entire nation rest on your young shoulders,” he added.

He recalled the decisive victory in the recent “Battle of Truth,” attributing it to the unity of all elements of national power, the coordination of the three armed forces, the aggressive decision-making, and the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He emphasized that despite being outnumbered, the PAF successfully downed the most advanced enemy aircraft while maintaining balanced and effective operations aimed at establishing peace with dignity.

“The world has never witnessed such bold use of air power integrated with specialized technologies,” the Air Chief said, adding that the recent conflict provides a textbook example for modern aerial warfare. He praised the PAF’s innovative and aggressive strategies, including the Smart Induction Program that rapidly integrated advanced fighter jets and technologies.

Air Chief Sidhu commended the professionalism and hard work of every PAF officer, noting that the combined bravery and coordination of all forces defended the nation with honor. He emphasized that Pakistan seeks peaceful relations with all nations but warned that any future challenge to sovereignty will meet a more capable and formidable PAF.

The graduation ceremony featured a flypast by PAF fighter jets and the Sherdil Aerobatics Team. Today, 151 GD Pilot, 97 Engineering, and 108 Air Defense Course cadets, along with 10th Navigation Alpha, 28th Admin & Special Duties, 11th Logistics, 134th Combat Support, and 98th EC Royal Saudi Air Force cadets, will graduate. In total, **166 cadets** passed out from PAF Academy Risalpur, including **136 from the PAF and 20 from the Royal Saudi Air Force**.