PAF pursues modernisation to transition into next generation Air Force: Chief

Islamabad: Air Chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu says Pakistan Air Force has pursued comprehensive modernisation and indigenisation to transition into a Next Generation Air Force.

He was addressing a ceremony in connection with the 7th anniversary of Operation Swift Retort at Air Headquarters.

The Air Chief noted that PAF recalibrated its Operational Doctrine and rapidly inducted advanced combat and support capabilities, including indigenously developed Unmanned Systems, Electronic Warfare, Space and Cyber assets, establishing a unique home-grown multi-domain Kill Chain.

He said Pakistan is a responsible country which desires peace with honour. He recalled that seven years ago, the aggressor miscalculated Pakistan’s resolve and capability by challenging its sovereignty under the cover of darkness.

He said PAF’s measured broad daylight response re-established credible deterrence against a numerically superior adversary.

Referring to Marka-e-Haq in May 2025, Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu stated that when Pakistan’s sovereignty was again challenged, PAF conducted, for the first time, full-spectrum multi-domain operations that were precisely executed and decisively overwhelmed the adversary.

He highlighted the downing of advanced platforms including Rafale, SU-30 MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29 and Unmanned Aerial Systems, strikes deep inside hostile territory, and neutralization of S-400 air defence systems along with their Command and Control Centre.

Reaffirming commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty, the Air Chief stated that PAF will continue to remain a symbol of pride, ensuring credible deterrence and a vigilant yet responsible defence posture.