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Air Force Day: PAF’s valour and sacrifices remembered

Air Force Day: PAF’s valour and sacrifices remembered

WEB DESK
September 7, 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the PAF, highlighting what he described as its close coordination with other branches of the armed forces during May 2025. — Reuters

Pakistan is observing Air Force Day on Monday as President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi paid tribute to the PAF, its personnel and those who sacrificed their lives defending the country.

In his message, President Zardari praised the PAF’s performance in aerial combat and said the force had demonstrated professional superiority and played a decisive role in the “Marka-e-Haq”. He attributed its performance to courageous leadership and effective planning.

Message from Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Pakistan Air Force Day

On the historic occasion of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Day, I appreciate all personnel of the PAF for their outstanding performance all along and pay tribute to Shuhada for their… pic.twitter.com/RlzFvP0txF
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) September 6, 2026

Zardari said the PAF had maintained its tradition of standing its ground despite being numerically outmatched. He said no adversary, regardless of its strength, could weaken the country’s resolve, adding that PAF personnel had displayed exceptional courage and remained ready to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and airspace.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the PAF, highlighting what he described as its close coordination with other branches of the armed forces during May 2025.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif's Message on Pakistan Air Force Day, 7 September 2026.

On the historic occasion of Pakistan Air Force Day, I commend all ranks of Pakistan Air Force for their outstanding performance through out its professional history.

Pakistan Air…
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) September 7, 2026

Sharif said the PAF had demonstrated exceptional combat skills and courage during the “Marka-e-Haq”, building on decades of experience and expertise in aerial warfare. He expressed confidence that the force remained fully prepared to meet future challenges.

Naqvi pays tribute to air force heroes

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described September 7 as a historic day commemorating the PAF’s bravery. He specifically recalled Squadron Leader MM Alam, saying his courage had enabled him to shoot down five enemy aircraft within a matter of minutes.

Naqvi said those guarding Pakistan’s airspace remained vigilant at all times and that the nation was proud of the PAF’s professional capabilities. He added that the sacrifices of its martyrs and veterans had strengthened the country’s defence.

Tributes to Rashid Minhas

A ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed in Karachi, where Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Sadozai, Air Officer Commanding Southern Air Command, laid a floral wreath and offered prayers.

PAF contingent also paid tribute to Minhas, while a wreath was laid on behalf of the Chief of Air Staff. PAF officials said Minhas’s determination and sacrifice continued to inspire generations of air force personnel.

Air Force Day

Air Force Day is observed every September 7 to commemorate the PAF’s role during the 1965 Pakistan-India war. The day is particularly associated with the performance of Pakistani pilots during the conflict and the bravery of air force personnel who defended the country.

The occasion also honours the legacy of MM Alam, who is remembered for shooting down five Indian aircraft in a single sortie during the 1965 war.

What Happened on September 7?

The Pakistan Air Force played an important role in the 1965 Pakistan-India war. On September 7, PAF pilots carried out operations against Indian aircraft.

The day is observed to commemorate the achievements of the Pakistan Air Force during the September 1965 Pakistan-India war.

The Pakistan Air Force is considered one of the world’s leading air forces. During the 1965 war, PAF personnel demonstrated courage and bravery while defending the country.

Along with September 6, observed as Defence Day, September 7 is remembered for the courage, skill and performance of the Pakistan Air Force. One of the day’s most notable events involved Squadron Leader MM Alam, who shot down five enemy aircraft from his fighter jet within a few minutes.

According to the account, PAF pilots shot down more than 50 Indian aircraft on September 6 and 7 during the Pakistan-India war. Their combat skills drew international attention.

Rashid Minhas’ sacrifice remains a guiding example for PAF

A ceremony was also held in Karachi at the mausoleum of Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas Shaheed, recipient of the Nishan-i-Haider, where a floral wreath was laid in his memory.

Air Officer Commanding Southern Air Command Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Sadozai attended the ceremony as chief guest, visited the mausoleum and offered Fateha.

A PAF spokesperson said Rashid Minhas’ determination and sacrifice remain a guiding example for PAF personnel. His sacrifice and commitment to duty, the spokesperson said, continue to serve as an example for future generations in defending the country.