PAF’s victory in Bunyanum Marsoos demonstrates its capability: Air chief

PAF’s Victory in Bunyanum Marsoos Demonstrates Resolve and Capability, Says Air Chief
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN – Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu declared that the force’s performance during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos (also referred to as Marka-e-Haq) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s aerial frontiers. The statement was made during the central Martyrs’ Day ceremony at Air Headquarters in Islamabad on September 7, 2025, commemorating PAF’s sacrifices and triumphs in historical and recent conflicts .

Key Highlights from the Address

1. Strategic Victory in Modern Conflict:

   • ACM Sidhu emphasized that PAF’s actions during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos—a reference to the May 2025 military engagement with India—demonstrated its “will and capability to guard the aerial frontiers of the motherland” .

   • The operation, which involved retaliatory strikes against Indian incursions, showcased PAF’s operational superiority and swift response to threats. The Air Chief noted that the victory was a testament to PAF’s preparedness in the face of “fast-changing security dynamics” .

2. Tributes to Martyrs and Legacy:

   • The ceremony honored PAF personnel who sacrificed their lives in the 1965 and 1971 wars, as well as recent conflicts. ACM Sidhu paid “heartfelt tribute” to fallen heroes, stating their sacrifices “serve as an enduring example for future generations” .

   • Special prayers and Quran recitations were held across all PAF bases nationwide, underscoring the force’s reverence for its martyrs .

3. Commitment to Technological Advancement:

   • The Air Chief affirmed PAF’s dedication to enhancing capabilities in “space, electronic warfare, cyber technologies, niche domains, and indigenous defence production” . This aligns with broader efforts to reduce reliance on foreign systems and bolster self-reliance through initiatives like the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) .

   • He highlighted the integration of multi-domain warfare strategies, including the use of J-10C aircraft with PL-15 missiles, UAVs, and network-centric operations, which proved critical in countering India’s Rafale jets during the May conflict .

4. Solidarity with Kashmir:

   • ACM Sidhu expressed “unwavering solidarity” with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, supporting their “legitimate and indigenous struggle for the right to self-determination” .

National Leadership’s Endorsement

• President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded PAF’s role in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, noting its “decisive” impact in thwarting Indian aggression. The Prime Minister stated that PAF’s “fearless leadership” and “multi-faceted combat capabilities” amazed the world .

• Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also praised PAF’s professionalism, with the latter noting that the force “shattered Modi’s pride” during the conflict .

Contextual Background

• The May 2025 conflict began with Indian airstrikes on Pakistani territory following the Pahalgam attack, which Pakistan denied involvement in. PAF’s retaliation reportedly downed six Indian aircraft, including Rafale fighters, though India disputed these claims and asserted its own victories .

• ACM Sidhu’s address comes amid ongoing regional tensions, with both nations engaging in symbolic posturing. For instance, an Indian Air Force official claimed six Pakistani aircraft were destroyed during the conflict, a statement contradicted by PAF’s narrative .

Conclusion

The Martyrs’ Day ceremony not only honored historical sacrifices but also reinforced PAF’s modern-day resolve. ACM Sidhu’s speech underscored a forward-looking strategy blending technological innovation with unwavering national duty. As regional security challenges evolve, PAF’s commitment to indigenous development and multi-domain dominance remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s defense policy