Pakistan a Responsible Nation, Air Force Will Meet Public Expectations: Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu

Rawalpindi: Addressing a ceremony at the Pakistan Air Force Headquarters on the seventh anniversary of Operation Swift Retort, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu reaffirmed Pakistan’s status as a responsible nation committed to peace with honor, while vowing that the Air Force will continue to meet the expectations of the nation.

During his speech, the Air Chief highlighted the Pakistan Air Force’s comprehensive and balanced response during the operation, noting that seven years ago, Pakistan’s sovereignty had been challenged by an adversary. He said the enemy had miscalculated Pakistan’s capabilities and resolve, underestimating the nation’s determination, spirit of sacrifice, and unparalleled courage, and attempted a cowardly night-time attack.

Air Chief Marshal Sidhu stated that the PAF responded decisively during daylight with precision and effectiveness, demonstrating its defensive strength against a numerically superior enemy. He recalled that in May 2025, when the aggressor once again challenged Pakistan’s sovereignty, the Air Force delivered a response that exceeded the enemy’s expectations.

He highlighted that, for the first time in history, the PAF conducted fully integrated, multi-dimensional operations in a highly organized and flawless manner, resulting in a decisive defeat of the enemy. Several advanced enemy platforms—including Rafale jets, Su-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, and unmanned aerial systems—were destroyed.

The Air Chief added that the PAF penetrated deep into enemy territory to target bases and ground assets, neutralizing the advanced S-400 air defense system and its command-and-control centers.

Concluding his address, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu reaffirmed that the Pakistan Air Force will continue to uphold the expectations of the nation and remain a symbol of pride for the country’s brave and steadfast people.