PAF showcases operational strength and technological integration
PAF chief declares Rafale ineffective in May operation
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu on Tuesday claimed that the Pakistan Air Force defeated the enemy and established clear superiority during Operation Banyan um Marsus. Speaking at the graduation parade at the PAF Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur, he stated that the Indian Rafale aircraft proved to be zero during the May engagements.
The air chief said the PAF delivered a calculated and professional response when Pakistan’s sovereignty was challenged on the night of May 6 and May 7. He asserted that fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force shot down the enemy’s advanced aircraft including Rafale.
He added that on May 10, the PAF successfully targeted the adversary defence system and achieved operational superiority within moments. He said the enemy’s movements were monitored within seconds which reflected the PAF’s real time surveillance and combat readiness.
PAF highlights modern warfare capability
Air Chief Sidhu explained that Operation Banyan um Marsus demonstrated the Pakistan Air Force’s ability to conduct multi domain warfare. He said the operation involved air missions, cyber operations, and modern tactical responses that broke the enemy’s teeth.
He added that the PAF could have caused greater damage but refrained because its actions were professional, deliberate, and guided by the principle of achieving peace with honour.
The air chief praised Field Marshal Asim Munir for playing a leading role during the conflict. He said the PAF has always remained the country’s strongest defensive line and continues to defend Pakistan’s territorial integrity without compromise.
He said that modern technology had been integrated into the force in record time which strengthened assets, capabilities, and overall preparedness.
Graduation parade at PAF Academy Risalpur
A prestigious passing out parade was held at the Asghar Khan Academy where the Air Chief was the chief guest. Cadets from several courses graduated including GDP, Engineering, Air Defence, Navigation, Admin and Special Duties, Logistics, and the 98 EC course of the Royal Saudi Air Force.
The ceremony featured a spectacular flypast by PAF fighter aircraft and the Sherdil Aerobatics Team. The chief guest said that global military observers had praised Pakistan’s aerial performance during the May conflict and an international study was underway to review PAF operations.
He said that success in modern warfare has been recognised worldwide and the passion of young officers remains the real strength of the Pakistan Air Force.
Critical analysis of the claims and their implications
What happened:
The Air Chief publicly declared that enemy Rafale jets performed poorly during the May engagements and claimed PAF superiority.
Where it occurred:
The statement was made at the PAF Academy in Risalpur during a graduation ceremony.
Why it matters:
The claim carries strategic, political, and military significance because Rafale is considered one of the most advanced fighters in the region. Declaring it ineffective challenges the perception of enemy air power and boosts domestic confidence.
How it affects future operations:
Such statements signal that Pakistan views its surveillance systems, cyber operations, and real time response capabilities as competitive strengths. However, independent verification of the claims and the absence of official details from the other side raise questions about the scale and accuracy of the engagements. The comments appear aimed at projecting deterrence and reinforcing the narrative of operational superiority.