The Air Force Day is observed on Sunday, with ceremonies and events throughout the country to pay tribute to courage and the sacrifices of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during the 1965 War.
As part of the commemorations, the contingents of PAF will visit the tomb of the national hero Rashid Minhas Shaheed to put a crown and present a greeting in his honor.
The Air Force Day is marked annually to remember the decisive aerial battles of the 1965 War, when PAF pilots, despite having overcome in number, inflicted great losses in the Indian Air Force and safeguard Pakistan’s airspace.
One of the most notable feats of the war was recorded on September 7, 1965, when the leader of the Squadron Muhammad Mahmood Alam (mm Alam) knocked down five Indian hunter planes in minutes, four of only 30 seconds. Registration remains unmatched in the history of air combat.
The Pakistan Air Force observes September 7 as the day of the martyrs
September 7, 2025: The Pakistan Air Force solemnly observed the day of the martyrs on September 7 in all PAF bases throughout the country. The day began with special prayers and the Khawani Qur’an, dedicated to the martyrs of 1965 and … pic.twitter.com/r2kurdxxlc
– DGPR (Air Force) (@DGPR_PAF) September 7, 2025
The PAF also launched successful attacks in the Indian air bases in Pathankot, Halwara and Jamnagar, the enemy operations paralyzed at the beginning of the conflict. His support on the fronts Lahore and Sialkot proved to be decisive in repelling offensives of Indian land.
At the beginning of May, during Pakistan-India’s clash, increasing from Pahalgam’s attack, the Pakistan Air Force knocked down Indian combat planes before the president of the United States was negotiated by the president of the United States.
The authorities say that the day serves as a reminder of the Value of the PAF and its continuous preparation to defend the skies of Pakistan. The ceremonies held throughout the country highlight the sacrifices of the Air Force and the Resistance of the Nation in times of conflict.
At the Air headquarters, Islamabad, a ceremony on the day of the central martyrs was held, where the head of the Air Mariscal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, head of the Air Force of the Pakistan Air Force, adorned the occasion as the main guest. Source: DGPR (Air Force) X Post
President, PM praised by the Pakistan Air Force
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) for their vital role in safeguarding the country’s heavens in the 1965 war.
In his message, President Zardari praised the sacrifices and heroism of the PAF, saying that the day was not just to remember past victories but also to honor the spirit of durable service and devotion that defines force. “My heart goes out in respect to our martyrs and Ghazis whose courage and sacrifices continue to inspire the nation,” he said.
The Air Force Day, President Asif Ali Zardari paid rich tributes to the martyrs and Ghazis of the Pakistan Air Force. He said that the PAF has always defended the skies of the nation with unique courage and professionalism, from the 1965 war to Marka-E-Haq bunyānum-marsūs.
– The president of Pakistan (@presofpakistan) September 7, 2025
Asif Ali Zardari, president of Pakistan, shares a message with the country on Air Force Day.
He recalled how, against overwhelming probabilities in 1965, PAF pilots showed extraordinary courage and determination, writing an unforgettable chapter in history. Referring to both the 1965 war and the subsequent operations, including the Marka-E-Haq Bunyanum Marsoos, the president pointed out that the aerial warriors had always increased to the challenge, delivering a decisive response to the enemy and embedding pride in the nation.
Highlighting the modern abilities of the PAF, President Zardari said that the world had witnessed his remarkable skill and professionalism, which he described as one of the strongest guarantees of Pakistan’s security. He expressed the confidence that the Air Force would continue to defend the sovereignty of the country with the same resolution and passion.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, also praised the PAF for his professionalism and strength in air combat throughout the decades. He said that the Air Force, which works alongside other armed forces, had played a decisive role in operations such as Marka-E-HAQ.
I greet our brave aerial warriors and their families on Air Force Day. Pakistan is proud of courage, dedication and commitment demonstrated by his Air Force. Your exceptional service and skills ensure that our skies are safe and their determination and value …
– Shehbaz Sharif (@cmshehbaz) September 7, 2024
PM Shehbaz shares a message with the country on Air Force.
The prime minister added that the Air Force Day serves as a reminder for future generations of dedication, determination and courage of Pakistan’s aerial warriors to protect the nation.