Our nation’s history is etched with innumerable stories of the Pakistan Air Force’s watchfulness and vigilance that not only safeguarded our skies but also proved unmatched superiority over the Indian Air Force.

In recent history, the world witnessed the operational excellence and unflinching spirit of the PAF on two major occasions: first, during Operation Swift Retort on 27 February 2024, the lessons of which were carried forward to Marka-e-Haq on 7 May 2025. In a resounding success, the message of the PAF was reverberant: any form of aggression against Pakistan will be met with a swift, calibrated, and effective response.

Commemorating the seventh anniversary of Operation Swift Retort at the Air Headquarters, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu underscored the posture of Pakistan as a responsible country desiring peace with honour. The enemy’s cowardice, shown by its decision to challenge Pakistan’s sovereignty in the darkness of night, revealed its unawareness and severe miscalculation of Pakistan’s resolve and capability.

India’s decision was propelled by nothing other than the pretext of falsehood, a series of lapses in judgement, and sheer ignorance. As sentinels of Pakistan’s skies, the valorous PAF personnel showcased unmatched professionalism by fearlessly punching the adversary back through a broad, well-calibrated, and measured response, through which strategic deterrence was re-established, clearly signalling that any threat to Pakistan’s skies will be........

© The Friday Times