Shehbaz Sharif Highlights PAF Legacy from 1965 to Marka-e-Haq
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for its long record of professionalism, courage and sacrifice, linking the force’s celebrated performance during the 1965 war with its role in the 2025 Marka-e-Haq conflict.
The prime minister made the remarks in a message marking Pakistan Air Force Day, observed on September 7. He paid tribute to the air warriors who sacrificed their lives while defending Pakistan’s aerial frontiers and praised the force’s continued efforts to modernise its capabilities.
Remembering the Heroes of 1965
Shehbaz Sharif recalled the courage displayed by PAF pilots during the September 1965 war. According to the prime minister, the aviators demonstrated determination and professional skill while defending the country’s airspace.
The 1965 conflict remains an important part of PAF history. The Pakistan Air Force Museum’s records highlight numerous officers and airmen who took part in combat missions and received gallantry awards for their service.
One of the most widely remembered figures from that period is Squadron Leader Muhammad Mahmood Alam, commonly known as M.M. Alam. PAF historical records credit him with shooting down five Indian Hunter aircraft in less than a minute during the September 1965 fighting.
From 1965 to Marka-e-Haq
The prime minister also connected the legacy of the 1965 generation of air warriors with the PAF’s performance during Marka-e-Haq in May 2025.
Shehbaz said the force worked in coordination with the other armed services and credited its performance to leadership, planning, combat skills and modern multi-domain warfare capabilities. He also highlighted the role of modernisation and indigenous defence development in strengthening operational preparedness.
The government and military leadership have repeatedly described the May 2025 confrontation as an important test of Pakistan’s defence preparedness. The PAF has subsequently highlighted the importance of coordination, technology and readiness in modern aerial warfare.
Focus on Modern Warfare
The nature of air warfare has changed significantly since 1965. Modern air forces rely not only on fighter aircraft but also on radar networks, electronic warfare, intelligence, surveillance, communication systems and coordinated operations across different domains.
Shehbaz Sharif specifically praised the PAF’s development of multi-domain capabilities and said continued modernisation would remain important for protecting Pakistan’s sovereignty and aerial frontiers.
This transformation reflects a broader shift in military technology, where information, precision, coordination and rapid decision-making have become increasingly important.
Tribute to PAF Martyrs
A central part of the prime minister’s message was a tribute to the personnel who lost their lives while serving the country.
Pakistan Air Force Day is observed every year on September 7 to remember the PAF’s role during the 1965 war and honour the sacrifices of its personnel. National commemorations also focus on the families of those who served and sacrificed their lives.
Shehbaz said the sacrifices of the PAF’s martyrs remain a source of national pride and expressed confidence that the force would continue developing professionally.
Looking Ahead
The prime minister concluded his message by expressing his best wishes for the continued progress of the Pakistan Air Force.
From the aircraft and tactics of 1965 to today’s increasingly technology-driven battlefield, the PAF has undergone significant transformation. For Pakistan’s leadership, the central message of Air Force Day remains one of preparedness, professionalism and remembrance.
The commemoration also provides an opportunity to recognise the service of past generations while highlighting the importance of modern technology and training in protecting the country’s airspace.
