Editor-in-Chief

Air Cdre (R) Contact Us

Muhammad Ali, SI (M)
second2none.paf@gmail.com
051- 950 6551
Editor 051- 950 7753
S. Khalil
Muhammad Khan
0345 5613 171
Executive Editor
Mobin Munir
Falak Sher Khan 0313 5454 601

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Muhammad Khan 051- 950 6551
051- 950 7753
+92 331 9356 324
Editing & Proof Reading
second2none.paf@gmail.com
Talha Ul Huda
Letters to Editor
Design Head chiefeditor@secondtononepaf.com
Mobin Munir
Website: www.secondtononepaf.com
Cover Photo: Awais Lali

Note: Contents are not necessarily the official views of

nor endorsed by the PAF. Information in this magazine is
current at the time of publication.

SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e

from the
Editor-in-Chief
W
ith the first issue we chronicle the incomparable legacy
of Second to of Squash in country and the efforts
None, a small yet being made by PAF to reclaim the
unwavering team lost glory. Another sport in which
set out to achieve the nation is rapidly becoming a
an enormous significant player on global scale is
task. Several late nights and endless skiing, with skiers and enthusiasts
efforts later, we finally produced an coming in droves from all over the
edition of the magazine that we world. We also shed light on the
were content with. As we waited deeply perturbing political and social
with baited breath, it was read by scenario in our neighbor, India, where
enthusiasts from all spheres of life. a single party has gripped the nation
in xenophobic hate and fear. Finally,
Then, the praise started rolling we talk about COVID 19, delving deep
in. It was beyond what we had into what makes the virus so deadly
hoped for and all our hard work and what measures are being taken
got recognition. We thank you, our by PAF alongside Govt of Pakistan/
readers from all across the world, other sister services to prevent its
for the appreciation, for your kind spread. We hope and pray that by
words and the overwhelming the time the magazine is published,
response for making the inaugural the humanity has recovered from the
magazine, a huge success. menace of this deadly pandemic.

Now, we present to you the The cover picture has been selected
second edition. We have touched to emphasize on the success of the
upon variety of topics and the JF-17 Thunder project. OSR was the
magazine has been curated with perfect arena for PAF’s indigenous,
even more meticulous care. With single-engine, super-maneuverable
the first anniversary of Operation JF-17 Thunder to be battle tested and
Swift Retort (OSR), we celebrate it more than proved its mettle.
the resilience of the nation and
analyze the events which made So, strap-up, because you are in for a
headlines during last one year. thrilling ride!
It further delves into the history
and dynamics of auspicious Inter
Squadron Armament Competitions
(ISAC) and its skillful Sher Afgans.
We also pay tribute to Wg Cdr
Nauman Akram (Shaheed), the
man who left many a hearts forlorn
but much more filled with pride.
Speaking of men who make PAF
proud, we shall step into the boots
of SSW Commandos, dauntless
men who are trained to overcome
all and any. It goes without saying
that remarkable men are molded
by great leaders, and PAF has had
the fortune of having the finest:
one of whom is Air Marshal Malik
Nur Khan. The strategic and
commercial gains of JF-17B Dual
Seater, which has been recently Air Cdre (R) Muhammad Ali, SI(M) Over Sea of Clouds : Flying the F-16, air superiority
acquired, are also pondered upon. Editor-in-Chief fighter, Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan,
Moving on from Aviation and PAF,
email: chiefeditor@secondtononepaf.com closes-in at supersonic speed (Photo: PAF Archive)

PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE

FEATURES REGULARS

03 Nation Celebrates Surprise Day 35 Passion, Pride & Legacy 59 Thunder Bravo Joins the Club
by Air Cdre (R) Muhammad Ali, SI(M) by S. Khalil by Alan Warnes

One year on, the resilient Pakistani nation celebrates the triumph of The history of Zenith and Nadir of Squash in Pakistan; The author spins the tale of how PAF acquired the Dual Seat
its air force in the form of ‘Surprise Day’ to commemorate Operation a plunge into the glorious past and a gleam of hope for JF-17B Thunder and what makes the warplane so relevant.
Swift Retort in which the enemy was dealt a humiliating blow. a sport revered by the entire nation.
65 Hindutva Shows Its True Colours
47 A Man with Midas Touch
by Ghanwa Ijaz & Dr. Usman Chohan
11 Battle For SherAfgan Continues... by Muhammad Khan After 73 years of independence, Quaid’s Two Nations Theory
by Air Cdre (R) Muhammad Ali, SI(M)
stands vindicated as BJP’s hatemongering leaves Indian
Tribute to AM Nur Khan: The man who single-handedly Muslims bleeding and marginalized.
When it comes to professionalism of PAF fighter pilots, nothing can
steered the success of not just PAF but every organization
parallel the grandeur of the Inter-Squadron Armament
that had the fortune of having him at the helm.
Competition and its intrepid Sher Afgans.
71 Future of Pakistan: Economy,
55 A Griffin Personified Opportunities and Challenges
23 Fearless Warriors by S. Khalil
by Aneeqa Safdar & Dr. Usman Chohan
by Muhammad Khan
The author analyzes Pakistan’s economy, trade potential
Gone but Never Forgotten- A tribute to the revered Sher
The author chronicles the legend of the uncanny SSW and what the future holds for the valiant nation.
Afgan and one of the most skilled fighter pilots of PAF,
Commandos and what makes them the inexorable
Wg Cdr Nauman Akram (Shaheed), who would stay alive
force that they are.
in the hearts of nation for the times to come. 75 COVID 19: Humanity under Lock Down
Dr Tahir Naeem
The author elaborates on the novel ‘Corona Virus” that has
caused global mayhem, its symptoms and ramifications. The
article also elaborates the measures taken by PAF to control its
spread.

79 The Afghan Settlement:

Peace at Last?
by Falak Sher Khan

Being caught between the invading US forces and the Taliban

regime, the Afghani people live uncertain and hard lives. With
peace agreement finally sealed between both sides, what does
the future hold for the resilient nation?

83 A Tribute to Paint & Brush Maestro

by S. Khalil

Contents
The inspiring story of a maestro who immortalized PAF’s
SUBSCRIBE glorious history through paint and brush.
FOR THE
YEAR 89 A View From the Slopes of
AND SAVE!
Malam Jabba
25% Talha Ul Huda
The author encapsulates the emerging sport of skiing in
Pakistan, with an exponential growth of foreign athletes and
enthusiasts, every year.

93 ‘Au Revoir’ Azam Khan:

You will be Remembered...
by S. Khalil
The editorial team bids farewell to one of the greatest squash
players of all time, who succumbed to Corona Virus, but his
smashes will echo in the Squash world eternally.

95 NEWS BULLETIN
 AIR CDRE (R) MUHAMMAD ALI, SI(M) COVER STORY

Nation Celebrates
SURPRISE
‘First Anniversary of Operation Swift Retort’

Air Domination at Stake : Once again, a better cause and planning, better leadership and equipment and
beyond everything else, the know how valour of men in blue, gave Pakistan victory during Operation
Swift Retort (OSR)

I
Above: The t was a bright and clear the jet back to a ground crew Pakistan Air Force was on
terrifying triad that
triumphed in OSR: A morning, with excellent that was made up of questions constant alert, no time to relax.
F-16, a Mirage and visibility to assault the when they noticed a payload Fast forward a year, Pakistan
a JF-17 fly together
in the ‘Surprise Day’ Indian Air Force with an missing from under the wing. Air Force allowed a brief period
Ceremony held in onslaught of haunting He went in for debriefing and of rejoicing. On the morning
Islamabad (Photo:
Awais Lali) memories of the last time it prepared for the next mission. of 27th February, 2020, PAF
violated Pakistan air space. There was no time to be puffed marked the first anniversary of
It soon became apparent to up, no time to celebrate. Orders ‘Operation Swift Retort’ (OSR),
Right Page: Aiming the intruders that trespassers from Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief which resulted in the downing
for the skies - A
JF-17 pulls up in will be shot at. Wg Cdr Noman Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan of two Indian planes
a gravity-defying Ali fired an air to air missile, to his men were clear - to cloak that had violated
maneuver during
a ceremony held he promptly announced ‘Fox themselves in humility, for God Pakistani
on 27th February
to commemorate
Three’, the brevity code for an gives grace to the humble. airspace,
Operation Swift active radar-guided missile hit. last year. At
Retort. (Photo:
Awais Lali) He returned to base, signed For the next five months a solemn

03 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 04

ceremony, Air Chief Marshal made its mark through Above: A trio of JF-17
Earlier, a formation of fighter aircraft The sky was blue and the air was filled Above: Flares over Sea
Mujahid Anwar Khan, professional excellence Thunders on the verge of
comprising F-16, Mirage and JF-17 Thunder with the spirit of commemoration. In the View - Spectators look on
executing a perfect break on
made his words count and valor during Operation in awe as Sherdils fly in an
the first anniversary of OSR aircraft which actively participated in federal capital, as indeed in towns and cities arrowhead formation during
again, “While I assure Swift Retort last year. on 27th February 2020. (Photo: ‘Operation Swift Retort’ appeared in the clear throughout the country, it was the same ‘Wings of Freedom’ air show
Pakistani nation of the Indeed, PAF’s prompt, Snr Tech Qadeer)
blue skies of Islamabad to commence the story, rejoicing was off the ration. Families held on 27th February in
preparedness of the air measured and surprising proceedings of the day. The lead, an F-16, all across PAF bases and crowds who Karachi.
force to counter threats, response busted the Right: Words that echoed (Photo: Dawn.com)
through the nation: Air Chief was flown by Wg Cdr Ghaffar Buzdar in front had turned up at Sea View, Karachi for the
we will not compromise aggressor’s arrogance”. seat and Sqn Ldr Hassan Sidiqui (officer who spectacular air show had waited for this
Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan
on sovereignty or territorial He further said, “Today, I delivers an arousing speech shot down an IAF SU-30 during OSR) in the moment. All the pent up joy of last year was
integrity of Pakistan. reiterate that commitment on the first anniversary of
rear. Flying in a tight formation, the Mirage unleashed. Jets flew in formations over
Bottom: Suspended in
Remember, professionally and caution; to respond OSR on 27th February 2020. Glory - A F-16 caught
(Photo: Snr Tech Iftikhar) on the left wing was flown by Sqn Ldr Abdul cheering crowds. Prime Minister Imran Khan spectacularly while
we are Second to None.” to the aggressor was our Rehman and JF-17 on the right by Sqn Ldr declared 27 February to be celebrated across performing alpha pass
The Air Chief further added, compulsion, but measured Abdullah. Seconds later, a JF-17 Thunder the country as the Surprise Day maneuver during ‘Wings of
“Pakistan Air Force, living and calibrated response Freedom’ air show held on
formation followed, same platform that 27th February in Karachi.
up to its legacy, yet again was entirely our choice”. played a significant role in the success of From the capital to any other city in the (Photo: Dawn.com)
Operation Swift Retort. country, Tuesday 26th February was another

The eager
spectators arrived
in droves to behold
the Wings of
Freedom Air show,
setting Karachi’s
Sea View alight with
exhilaration.
A Triumph preserved in Marble: The sleek monument erected at PAF Base Mushaf reminds us
of the success of OSR. (Photo: PAF Archive)

05 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 06

typical working day. There was nothing
to indicate that this was going to be
anything but just another Tuesday,
when six Indian jets sneaked into
Pakistan’s air space during night.
They dropped their payload in panic
under threat from incoming PAF
interceptors and retreated as fast as
jets can travel. Only the Indian military
could find humor in this pointless,
incomprehensible, and disgusting
act. It was hard to believe it really ever
happened. It generated loathing for
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and
everything he stands for.

Drums of War Beat

It was time to push Modi off his couch. befitting response for the the helm of affairs gather Above: Air Chief
PAF, under the able command of enemy.Swiftly, the air chief for a briefing that will detail Marshal Mujahid
uncompromising air chief, planned the Anwar Khan, CAS
took control of the conflict, targets the next day. Once along with Wg Cdr
planned it and directed it, the targets were decided, Noman Ali & Sqn
himself, in the tiniest detail - they were passed to the Ldr Hasan Siddiqui
(Photo: Snr Tech
let Modi have it in the chin. squadrons. Carefully chosen
PAF’s prompt,
Wings of Freedom Air Show
Asad)
sons trained to fighting edge,
measured and In a scenario right out of a were poured into cockpits.
surprising spy novel, a special mission They didn’t hug their children, Bottom: Given its
rightful place-The
response busted was about to become part there were no final goodbyes, newly inaugurated
To commemorate the success of ‘Operation
the aggressor’s of history. As they had done just another day in the office. section devoted Swift Retort’, a PAF air display event with the
many times before in deadly Such devotion must never be to OSR in PAF title ‘Wings of the Freedom Air Show’ was held
arrogance: Air Chief wars against India, mission forgotten. Museum Karachi.
(Photo: Snr Tech
at Sea View Karachi. The air show opened
officers and architects at Asif ) with the fly past of PAF fighter formations.
In lead was a four ship formation of F-16
The climb to this peak of barrage of accusations Above: Lead by aircraft. It was followed by the JF-17 Thunder
confrontation started after were hurled against the crescent
3-ship JF-17 formation, call sign ‘The Minhasians’.
the Pulwama incident, in Pakistan. Having achieved formation fly Next to enter the arena was the ‘Bandits’
Indian Occupied Kashmir, peace and stability after 15 majestically formation, comprising four Mirage aircraft
where Kashmiris have paid long years of war against against a beautiful
backdrop of a in a tightly-knit box formation. After the fly
a heavy toll for the rest of terror, Prime Minister
sunny February past, Augusta-139 helicopters along with
the world’s ignorance and Imran Khan, offered sky during air
veteran MI-17 helis of PAF entered the venue
blind prejudice. After an complete cooperation in show held on
attack on an Indian convoy the investigation of the 27th February in in three ship formation. Much awaited solo
Karachi. (Photo: aerobatics performance by the Pride of the
that killed 40 soldiers, a incident. Chief of General Wg Cdr Mudasir)
Nation JF-17 Thunder aircraft was the next
item on the list. Flown by Wing Commander
Mudassir Riaz, Thunder enthralled the
audience with its thundery performance.
Minutes after the exit of Thunder, Wing
Bottom Left: Commander Zeeshan Ali Munawar dashed
All four of the in to the venue, flying the F-16 Falcon. Like
missiles under
always, the finale of the show ended with the
the Bison’s wings
were still in breath taking performance by the ‘Sherdils’.
position when the The spectacular air display concluded with
aircraft crashed.
their trademark bomb burst maneuver,
(Photo: Alan
Warnes) leaving behind an awe stricken audience.

PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 08

 Staff UK Army, General Sir Patrick
OSR Immortalized
An aviation art competition was organized
Carter, admired the way Pakistan
accomplished peace and was defence partners of Pakistan by PAF, calling in submissions from all over
holding on to it. The Royal Couple such as the Saudi, Chinese the nation. The chosen theme was ‘PAF Air
praised Pakistan’s efforts when they and Azerbaijan contingents, the Battles’ and ‘Operation Swift Retort’. The
Malaysian Prime Minister himself, On 7th September, 2019, PAF
acknowledged the huge undertaking artists, finally able to contribute in their own
stunning performances by Chinese countered false claims when PAF
of security in the country. But way to the recuperation of the nation, sent
and Turkish air forces, steeled the fighter pilots Wg Cdr Noman Ali
threats against Pakistan grew.
resolve of the nation. and Sqn Ldr Hassan Siddiqui told in an overwhelming number of remarkable
Prime Minister Imran Khan was
their side of the story to the nation, Operations, also turned down Above: Wing tip to Wing tip - submissions. The short-listed submissions
forced to caution his counterpart Sherdils performs during air show
Even as the situation started in a widely watched TV program false claims made by IAF. were curated in an exhibition held in February
that he would take the fight to the held on 27th February at Karachi.
to de-escalate, humiliated BJP ‘Mujahideen Aflak Ko Salam’. In the
enemy and it was going to be the (Photo: Zohaib Zaidi) at PNCA, Islamabad. The well-illuminated hall
government of India, backed by same program, Air Marshal Haseeb Earlier this year before the PAF
hard way. was filled with exclamations of awestruck
RSS radicals and fanatic media, Paracha, Deputy Chief of Air Staff commemorated Operation Swift
Retort, it held a press briefing connoisseurs as they wandered from one
Few weeks after the daring daylight continued to churn out false Bottom: One for All - A 3-jet
claims. The repatriated Indian pilot ROLL OF HONOUR and showed the world remains of piece to the next. Awais Lali’s remarkable
raid and downing two Indian Air formation of F-16s breaking with
Wg Cdr Abhinandan Varthaman, R-73 (Archer) perfect synchronization. (Photo: capture of a F-7PG landing in Samungli Base,
Force jets, and despite tense Sitara-e-Jurat
was credited with an F-16 kill, and R-77 Wg Cdr Mudasir) won the hearts of the judges, one of whom
regional environment, Pakistan Wg Cdr Noman Ali Khan
turning an embarrassing defeat (Adder) was the world-renowned aviation artist
went on to display its military might
into a victory for an Indian public Tamgha-e-Jurat missiles.
on March 23rd, 2019. Pakistan Masood Akhtar Hussaini. The exhibition was
that was looking for answers from Wg Cdr Faheem Ahmed They were
Day parade was conducted in full also adorned with masterpieces and aero
its military that boasts the highest Sqn Ldr Hasan Siddiqui retrieved
strength. Participation by major
defence spending in the world. after models of both civilians and PAF men of art,
Abhinandan’s Russian to the delight of the visitors.
built Mig was shot down by (Photo: Cpl Tech Irfan)
Above: Flying Wg Cdr Noman Ali and crashed -
with the finest-A the same rocket India claimed to
4-ship formation have downed a Pakistani F-16.
of Mirages make
their grandiose pilot, a flying suit of
entrance over Home to some of PAF’s most prized Wg Cdr Abhinanan Varthaman, has been
the venue during trophies such as the IAF Gnatt put on display.
air show held on
27th February in
Karachi. (Photo: A memorial at Mushaf Air Force
Dawn.com)
Base, fighter town Sargodha, is an enduring
tribute to the airmen who made history,
Left: An Agusta fighter jet from the 1965 war and and served their nation. It is not a typical
helicopter an Afghan Mig captured during
glides above the
‘Remembrance Day’ memorial. The black
spectators during the Soviet-Afghan War, none archival wall depicts the names and the story
air show held on are as exciting as the PAF of Surprise Day. The message is distinct - like in
27th February in Museum’s latest attraction.
Karachi. the past, Pakistan would change the ending and
(Photo:Wg Cdr An entire section has been the enemy would glow with envy. The message
Mudasir) dedicated to Operation Swift Retort, is clear in the words of Air Chief Marshal
where the tail section and debris of Mujahid Anwar Khan, “Make No Mistake…”….
the IAF Mig-21 shot by PAF fighter

09 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 10

 AIR CDRE (R) MUHAMMAD ALI, SI(M) SPECIAL FEATURE

“
It is an exercise that takes adroitness, killer instincts, nerves of steel and
panache. Pilots are taxed to their mental and physical limits during the

“
Inter Squadron Armament Competition (ISAC) that culminates into the live fire
power demo. For four consecutive days, squadrons are thrust into front-line combat
exercise where pilots are required to think clearly and process at three times the
speed of sound, and the ground crew are expected to facilitate the complex running
of the airborne. At the heart of the sorties, judges look at the height and position
for every move. “We are not allowed to be average,” said Top Gun Wg Cdr Nauman
Akram. The squadron that wins ISAC earns bragging rights to be Second to None. In
the PAF, excellence is a standard, not an achievement.

Future air-crafted
with absolutely new
capabilities: A PAF pilot
rises to the faith that
the nation has in him
(Photo: Flt Lt Ikrash)

11 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 12

 L
ike a shark circling a
wounded prey, Wg Cdr
Nauman Akram comes
out of a 3G turn as he
makes his final course
change and locks in on a straight
path to the target. The squadron
commander has rehearsed the next
moves over and over again in his
head. In a brilliant display of aerial
dexterity, F-16’s Gatling machine gun
dispatches a short burst at the ten-
by-ten feet target on the ground; it’s
a direct hit (DH). The 85 out of 100
rounds impact with deadly accuracy,
and the pilot pulls up before breaking
the hard deck. All in less than ten
seconds.

Nauman Akram gets the highest

number of DH. The top gun wins
the Sher Afghan Trophy for superb
marksmanship in the Inter Squadron
Armament Competition (ISAC) 2019,
one of the most realistic combat
training exercises. He does the No
9 Sqn proud - the same Sqn that
won the Perry-Keene trophy in the
very first inter-squadron armament
competition in 1949.

From its inception, Pakistan Air Force

has had to contend with an enemy
that enjoys a clear advantage in
numbers even today - 4:1. In order
to meet the challenge of numerical
superiority, the PAF has striven to
maintain a qualitative edge over
its adversary. And to sustain it, the
air staff has placed the greatest Top: No way inferior in terms of maneuverability, Chinese built A-5 banks left.
emphasis upon the quality of combat
Center: US built Starfighter F-104 opens power for a supersonic run.
training inculcated into all elements of
Bottom: A PAF F-6, punches a hole through the sky as it fires a rocket.
this fighting force. (All Photos: PAF Archive)

F-16: Munitions fall from the sky like rain (Photo: PAF Archive)

13 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 14

 Delight spectators at airshows and upset enemies in war:
Fight comes down from almost invisible heights to the final decision, few
100 feet above ground during ISAC 1974 (Photo: PAF Archive)

On
9th March, 1967 President of Pakistan and guest of honour
Shah of Iran, were among 100,000 plus guests in attendance at Jamrud range for PAF’s
biggest yet fire power demonstrations. Low over the dark-hued background of the Khyber
Pass and Hindu Kush mountains, two wisps of smoke rapidly enlarged into two dots. PAF’s In its earliest days, PAF discovered Officer and without the advantage Top Left: Two SherAfgans in one Frame -
Sqn Ldr Alauddin Ahmed (Shaheed & SJ
F-104s, opened the display with supersonic runs, with double sonic booms. Munitions fell the immense importance of holding of technology, glass cockpit, and
of 1965 war) and Sqn Ldr Sadruddin (3rd
from the sky like rain in the following acts. It was a frightening display of firepower that could break the will regular operational exercises. In computer displays that have replaced from Right) (Photo: PAF Archive)
of any adversary. It is four days celebration of brilliant flying and air-to-ground target shooting. 1960, the Fighter Leader’s School gauges.
introduced the Sher Afgan trophy, Top Right: Flg Off Aliuddin, two time
The FPD that followed the four-day ISAC, 2019, may not have been the biggest, but the guest winner of SherAfgan title, receiving
of honours, and those observing from outside, witnessed the extent and horror of destruction for the individual fighter pilot Expectations were higher the second coveted trophy from AM Nur Khan in ISAC
caused by air to ground attacks by PAF pilots. Scenes of guided missiles, tank killing weapons that who emerged as the best overall time in 1968. Aliuddin swept down on 1967. (Photo: PAF Archive)
not even the strongest armour could survive, falling with pinpoint precision, drove home the reality of marksman during inter-squadron his target, punched out 120 rounds
Bottom: Poster Perfect - Explosive and
war and deadly potential of PAF jet planes. Impressed with the strength and capabilities during the live armament competitions. in little over a second from the six
thunderous force of F-86 jets sweep down
fire, President of Pakistan Arif Alvi, witnessed pilots rise to the faith that the nation has in Browning machine guns of his F-86, the skies (Photo: (Photo: PAF Archive)
Designed to hone and test the skills admired his handiwork and pulled up.
them.
of its operational crews, inter- “It was a DH. All 120 bullets hit the
squadron armament competitions target,” he said.
became a regular feature of the PAF.
Nobody could explain this better than In 1974-75, Aliuddin had almost
Air Marshal Aliuddin (Retd) two times won the top gun trophy for the
top gun. He won the Sher Afghan third time. After the three
trophy in 1967 and then again a year rockets he fired on
later, when he was just a Flying target,

15 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 16

the fourth washed out. “I immediately
shouted ‘twirler’. When fired, it took SherAfgan SHER AFGANS
off for kingdom come,” he laughed
illustrating what happened by
Trophy was Year Name

breaking down the engagement. introduced for the 1960 Sqn Ldr M Sadruddin

ISAC competitions were driving tests

first time in 1960 1961 Sqn Ldr M Hayat Khan

of our lives. “The focus was on keeping 1963 Sqn Ldr A U Ahmad
pilots sharp. Competitions required
1964 Flg Off Zaigham Azad
precision flying and experience, which
came from training in conditions 1967 Flg Off Ali Ud Din
as real as possible. Inter-squadron Perry-Keene
armament competitions were the 1968 Flg Off Ali Ud Din Inter Squadron Armament Trophy
finest methods of inculcating Spirit-
1985 Wg Cdr Wali Niaz Mughani 1949 No 9 Squadron
de-Corp,” Aliuddin said explaining why
1952 No 5 Squadron
it used to be such a huge thing for the 1989 Sqn Ldr Gul Abbas Mela
squadron that won. pilot personally. There is no doubt is anything but certain. With 1954 No 14 Squadron
1996 Sqn Ldr Aasim Zaheer that officers like FS Hussain, different platforms, such as the 1955 No 5 Squadron
It was a privilege for then Flying Sikander Masood, Jamal A Khan, JF17, F-7 and Mirage, the aircraft 1959 No 14 Squadron
2007 Wg Cdr Tariq Zia
Officer Aliuddin that Air Marshal Nur MM Alam, Lucky Hayat, Arshad may not be equally matched,
1960 No 11 Squadron
Khan would prefer to fly with him. It 2015 Sqn Ldr Tariq Wahid Malik
Chaudhry, Wiqar Azim and it is the pilot that makes the
Aliuddin fought different kinds of difference, at least that’s how 1961 No 5 Squadron
was an honour when Shah of Iran,
2019 Wg Cdr Nauman Akram wars, their bravery was a strain many officers see it. 1962 No 19 Squadron
during his visit to the biggest fire
power demonstration ever held in of bravery that still commands 1963 No 19 Squadron
Pakistan, asked to meet the young respect. But that is what the PAF “In a simple comparison, plane 1964 No 14 Squadron
wants, for the young pilots today vs plane, the F-16 comes out on
1967 No 19 Squadron
to see what they did and then top. In the end it is the quality and
raise the bar. expertise of the pilot that matters *Inter Squadron

On
the surface, the airforce may seem like solo acts Armament Trophy
the back b on e

most,” said Air Cdre Sajjad Noori,

performed by pilots, but it’s a concerto accompanied
Formation and presentations of Commandant ACE. 1968 No 25 Squadron
by an orchestra. Without technicians and weapons
loaders air force cannot fight and win. One of the the inter-squadron armament 1974 No 23 Squadron
major reasons Air Marshal Aliuddin would get DH was that may be pre-set; the outcome 1976 No 23 Squadron
he used to harmonize the guns himself. “And I could not have
1978 No 19 Squadron
done it without my handpicked weapons loaders,” the retired Air
Marshal said. On land they are the real masters behind military 1985 No 18 Squadron
aircraft. 1989 No 11 Squadron
1996 No 9 Squadron
ISAC is more than just training for pilots. Entire squadrons go
to Masroor. Ground crew, maintenance teams and support 2007 No 9 Squadron
personnel perform assistance in real world conditions. And 2015 No 11 Squadron
in recognition of the hard work and dedication of weapons
2019 No 11 Squadron
loaders, without whom fighter wings cannot maintain their Left Page Above: Air Chief *Perry-Keene trophy title changed in 1968
positions as best in PAF, the Best Armament Competition (BAT)
Marshal Mohammad Abbas to Inter Squadron Armament Trophy
was introduced to ISAC 2019. Regardless of types of aircraft to
Khattak presenting Sher
be loaded or size of bombs to be handled, the job of equipping
Afghan trophy to Sqn Ldr
the aircraft is exacting in nature. It requires strict observance
Aasim Zaheer during ISAC
of all safety precautions. As soon as they get their queue,
weapons loaders go to work, equipping advanced sensors, 1996. (Photo: PAF Archive)
munitions and bombs. Signing the aircraft back over to the pilot
is a big responsibility on their shoulders. It is their job to ensure
that the pilot and plane return home safely. Left Page Center: Air Chief
Marshal Tanveer Mehmood
In 2019, the Best Armament Trophy was won and shared by Ahmad presenting Sher
No 2 and No 8 squadrons, while No 14 Squadron won the Afghan trophy to Wg Cdr
Maintenance Trophy. Ground crew: It is their aircraft. They only lend Tariq Zia during ISAC 2007.
it to pilots to do the job (Photo: PAF Archive) (Photo: PAF Archive)

17 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 18

 During ISAC in 1960, victory clearly belonged to
Walking with Comrades No 16 Sqn. Even if the four pilots from No 14 had
placed seven bombs out of the eight through the
Last year, like in the past, the four-day target, No 16 Sqn would still win. “The only, but
ISAC 2019, was announced roughly two nearly impossible, danger was that they might
months prior to the competition. It is come back with 100 percent bombing results,
a rare gathering of gladiators, for an
which would give them a very thin
exercise that tests a combat aviator’s
margin over No 16 Sqn, But
physical, emotional and mental
that seemed improbable,” wrote
capabilities to their limits. Best of all
Air Cdre Sajjad Haider in his book
is their comradeship, fellows who trust
‘Flight of the Falcon’. As the entire lot of pilots
each other with their lives. Tales that
waited for the final results, Sajjad Haider vividly
are only shared among fellow aircrews
are the highlight of the gathering, only remembers Zaheer Massey (affectionately
outside, “The now banished institution known as Jumbo), switch-off his aircraft and
of the ‘Bar’,” to safely put it in the words shouting from the cockpit, “All eight bombs in,
of former Air Chief Marshal Mohammad we got 100 percent hits.”
Abbas Khattak from the book titled
‘Flight of the Falcon’. Although, today “I could have slaughtered
F-86 Drop Napalm (Photo: PAF Archive) life may not be around the bar, as many Jumbo with my
officers lament, constant are the stories bare hands that
that involve war and all the atrocities day, for taking away our
that it brings, many stories of mischief, victory. The silver lining was that our
camaraderie and various stories of Squadron Commander, top gun Sqn Ldr
young men being young men. Come Sadruddin had won the Sher Afghan trophy,”
competition day, chivalrous heroes he writes.
engaged in honest and impressive
squadron-against-squadron and one-
to-one fighting. The reward - a celebrity
status.

For the first

time, in
2019, There are remembered names in Base history room, Mushaf Air
ISAC was Force Base, Sargodha - a score of victory on the records of them
all, who in the decisive moment gave us freedom of the air. Among
held under the them is the recently added name of Wg Cdr Nauman Akram,
whose professionalism rises above the job description of a pilot.

Supervision This editorial team had the honour and privilege of shaking his
hand. The high scoring aviator told us about his recently won title

of ACE of Top Gun. Two weeks later, during a rehearsal for Parade Day,
the life of this ACE was cut short that fueled his status as nation’s
heroic martyr.

19 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 20

 rooms. Back at their home bases,
Last year, like in the past, the four- executing fighter maneuvers,
pilots swap their interesting
day ISAC 2019, was announced pilots communicated with each
stories with a mix of adrenaline
roughly two months prior to the other and ground controllers
and relief, reenacting their
competition. All fighter Sqns of using phrases few civilians have
successes and failures.
PAF arrived at Masroor Air Force ever heard; such as bank and
Base in Karachi. Four handpicked open power, secret codes for
“ISAC challenges PAF pilots with
pilots in each squadron got a certain offensive flying, tactical
first hand experiences - hitting
shot at joining the exclusive club calls. As pilots delivered payload
target in close and long range
of top guns. on target, thousands of pounds
ground attacks. It’s like being
of heavy thrust shriek in angry
Pilots flew the jets on stem power, thrown into the deep. We study
protest against the pull of the
brain stem - flying F-16s, Mirage, Bottom: Fire Power at PAF Sonmiani Range, the capabilities of the aircraft,
desert floor.
JF-17 and F-7Ps the same way 2019 - Time lapse captures war winning weapons check if the weapon systems
screaming down on to a target brought into focus
they breathed or walked, without perform as designed and
Until the last day, only the by time and velocity, moments before impact that
having to think about it - doing was the last instant of things as they were, and validate our tactics,” said Wg Cdr
“Griffins” could have beaten the
science inverted, 500 knots, then the visible objects exploding. Nauman Akram.
“Griffins” But the “Arrows” in (Photo: Wg Cdr Mudasir)
pulling Gs. Teamwork was key. the No 11 Sqn who won ISAC
Pilots flew a tightrope between Their exchanges may be part
eventually, had visualized lifting
stalking and over shooting their Right Page: That moment of pride and honour, bravado but there is no mistaking
the trophy for years. when element leaders from different PAF
ground targets, balancing off those clear looks in their eyes of
squadrons come together at PAF Base Masroor
with stick and delicate taps of Lessons learnt in ISAC are too to compete for the highest award in combat self-awareness and gravitas.
the rudder at 900 kph. While valuable to be left in debriefing exercise, with discipline, sense of duty to
comrades and ability to demonstrate courage.
(Photo: Snr Tech Asad)

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 MUHAMMAD KHAN FEATURE

Fe a r l e s s
warriors
“ There are menonly
“
who can steer the destiny of a nation with their bare hands. Men who acknowledge no dead ends,
obstacles to be defeated. Such is the nature of PAF’s best, the men of the SSW.

D
eep in the woods, a that the adrenaline has diminished
Special Services Wing long ago, he is tempted to give up
(SSW) trainee waits in or be disqualified, just like dozens of
the dead of the night, trainees have done before him. But
broken with fatigue. He he grips his F2000 assault rifle tightly,
feels the bands of his 20 kg backpack the sharp, functional shape giving him
that he has been carrying for hours, comfort and chants the commando
dug painfully deep into his flesh. mantra under his breath, ‘Man Jaan
Being a part of ‘Survival, Escape Bazam….’ He just needs to read his
and Evasion’ exercise, he knows map and compass one last time.
the trainers that he’s supposed to That means turning on his tactical
evade are nearby. He can’t afford to cam light. But doing that, in this pitch-
be detected, not when he’s so close black jungle, is like lighting a locating
to completing the exercise. Now flare for the trainers and a certain
Ready to Pounce:
Commandos advance
rapidly to engage
hostiles after being
dropped by a MI-17
Helicopter
(Photo: PAF Archive)

Soaked to the Skin: The

Dinghy is the vehicle
of choice for SSW
men when it comes to
waterborne operations.
(Photo: AWO Bilal)

SSW Commandos
assume synchronized
combat positions to
eliminate any threats
that may arise.
(Photo: AWO Iftikhar)

23 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 24

capture. But he has no choice. extreme-risk operations, some bases lacked defensive capabilities. This led could be termed comfortable but that is as Left Above: A camouflaged
He listens to the rustle of the of which the public would to the creation of the 312 Ground Combat far as the indulgence goes. As soon as you SSW Sniper waits with
leaves, anything that would never know. Wing, which specialized in defence of air venture farther into the Base, you can feel baited breath alongwith his
suggest troops nearby. On The origin of the SSW can be assets. In the decades that followed, officers an aura of functional primitiveness. One spotter to make one lethal
hearing nothing, he readies his traced back to the original and airmen of the PAF got training in various shouldn’t make any mistakes, though, the shot that might matter
map and compass in the dark No 312 Air Warfare Wing in commando and advanced courses with the Base is more than well-equipped to serve more than a hundred
rounds fired.
and turns his light on for a few the late 60s. The training was Army SSG on a voluntary basis. its purpose. The reason for this coarse aura
(Photo: PAF Archive)
seconds. “Light!” He hears a conducted at Cherat Base, is the fact that the purpose for the Base
vengeful yell from a trainer not along with the other Special Following the Kargil war, Air Chief Marshal demands ruggedness.
Right Above: These men in
far from his location. But the Pervaiz Mehdi Qureshi realized that the PAF
black with their FN Herstal
few seconds that he had to lacks the capability when it comes to the The SSW has three major objectives: the
P90s can hold their own
read the map would suffice. Jungle warfare, domain of special operations. That is when protection of the Chief of the Air Staff, the
against the best of the
He hastily stuffs the map in his the Ground Combat Wing was converted defense of PAF air bases & assets and
Mountain warfare, best. (Photo: PAF Archive)
backpack and disappears into to a Commando/Special Services Wing in third, the most perilous one, conducting
the night, leaving no trace for
Snow warfare, Forces. The objective of the Left Above: Hardened late 90’s. Men who had been taking part in operations to target enemy air bases, Bottom: No matter who
the trainers to follow. Sniper course, Special Air Warfare wing was SSW men advance commando courses were gathered and out assets and forward radars. It goes without
with their trusty you are, a fully-armed man
Anti-terrorist course, to conduct intelligence-based FN Herstal F2000 of hundreds, 89 airmen and 6 officers were saying that the offensive role rarely stays emerging from the water
The Special Services Wing, Unarmed course operations, within the country Assault Rifles selected. constrained to bases or radars. SSW with a dagger clutched
is a highly specialized and and on enemy territory. The (Photo: PAF Archive) Commandos operate under conditions
are some of the courses between his teeth will
exclusive unit of Pakistan wing was also deployed at As you enter the home of SSW, you are unfathomable to the common man. “The make your knees crumble.
which are part of SSW
Air Force. Since its inception PAF Base Dhaka in 71 for Right Above: From greeted by a layout that is judicious in its name ‘Al-Swaiq’ (thunderstorm) was chosen (Photo: AWO Bilal)
training the belly of the
in 2000, the unit has to its defense of air assets. After 71, hardihood. The humble office/hosting area for SSW from the Quran for its aptness in
beast! The MaxxPro
name several high-profile and it was ascertained that the air MRAP vehicle allows
commandos to
advance even in the
face of heavy fire.
(Photo: PAF Archive)

Center: The enemy

knows it’s breaths
are numbered when
the SSW come out
of their camouflage
(Photo: PAF Archive)

Bottom Left: Fear

Factor: Special
Service Wing men
pose for a photo-op,
formidable and awe-
inspiring
(Photo: PAF Archive)

25 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 26

describing what the force any other. Every officer that Right: A commando
fires into the night
stood for. The wing is further spends time here comes out
with a FN Minimi
divided into three special ops a different man,” says Wg which can pummel
squadrons, which specialize Cdr Muhammad Noor Babar hostiles with a
in different terrains and as he drives us around. “The fire rate of a 1000
rounds/min. (Photo:
tenacities; ‘Al-Raad’ (clap of boys that come here have AWO Bilal)
thunder), ‘Al-Burq’ (lightning) some ideas in their mind
and newly raised ATT (Anti- about how tough they are Center Left: Out of
the sky, into enemy
Terrorist Training) Sqn. The and how the course would be fire - Skydivers dive
members of the Al Raad a breeze for them. We beat into the abyss from
specialize in operations out that cockiness in the first the ramp of a C130.
(Photo: PAF Archive)
conducted in mountainous few days,” he adds with a
and jungle terrain, the Al chuckle. Center Right:
Burq squadron is adept Men of all terrains-
in operations in deserts The officers and airmen Commandos don the
white camouflage
and plains, while the ATT that want to join the SSW of snow operations
Sqn specializes in hostage are put through an initial while firing at 9500
rescue operations during training course on the Base. ft at Naltar. (Photo:
PAF Archive)
anti-terrorist role” explains The purpose of this training
Wg Cdr Muhammad Shakeel is to weed out the weak. It Bottom: It takes a
Mughal, officer commanding includes strenuous route rare breed of men
to be so joyous just
SSW. marches with each trainee
before jumping out
laden with full combat of a plane at
“In the air force, everybody load. The run has to be 10, 000 ft. (Photo:
is aware that tenure at the completed under 12 hours. PAF Archive)

Base is a life style unlike Another exercise that sees a

considerable rate of dropouts of ‘Allah Hoo!’ the ground Above: Under

the veil of the
is the infamous 4-mile run seemingly quivering with
night-Trainees
with full equipment, which has the accumulated force of fire tracer
to be completed in under 35 their knee-high boots. These bullets at targets
minutes. The attrition rate is include all levels of trainees. hidden in the
gloom.(Photo:
understandably very high, as is The ones who are a part of AWO Bilal)
the rate of injuries. the initial training course and
the more advanced ones who
Center Right: A
The Base is vigor personified. have returned after passing fully-equipped
Almost every man you see the basic commando course commando
is engaged in one strenuous with the SSG in Cherat to train looks into the
darkness with
activity or the other. We in advanced SSW courses. his night vision
pass several groups of fully- The ground is all slopes, goggles. (Photo:
equipped men marching making even walking in the AWO Bilal)
to synchronized slogans premises a constant
Bottom Left: A
roar of triumph-
Instructors are
aware that the
tasks required of
the SSW require
perpetual
morale boosting.
(Photo: AWO
Bilal)

Bottom Right:
SSW men siege
a train during an
exercise. (Photo:
PAF Archive)

PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 28

 Left: Blood Bond - The SSW, A man leaping from a plane thousands of feet in the air
standing tall in the dark,
takes guts that a very few can boast. The para trooping
morales higher than the
mountains that surround them courses include Static Line jumps and Advanced Static
(Photo: PAF Archive) Line jumps, in which there is fixed wire in the plane to
which all jumpers’ chutes are attached, which pulls open
Bottom Left: RPGs are a
commando’s one-stop solution the chute. Then comes skydiving from higher altitudes,
to most unmoving obstacles which includes High Altitude High Opening (HAHO) and
that present themselves in High Altitude Low Opening (HALO) jumps.
battle.(Photo: PAF Archive)
“The progression is static line jump, then advanced
Bottom Right: The SSW men static line jump, rigger course, jumpmaster course,
are capable of explosions and military skydiving, equipment training, skydiving
havoc that would put an action
with equipment, night skydiving and finally, night
movie to shame. (Photo: PAF
Archive) skydiving with equipment. There is no room
for error. We have the Jumpmasters, who
calculate and plan the jump, the Riggers
Right Page Top: Snipers are
considered odd even within who are experts in preparing chutes.”
SSW men; its not possible Explains Base Cdr Air Cdre
exercise. This design is cunningly over the vast training area. “Trainees are for every man to remain Muhammad Yousaf, who
deliberate, the purpose obvious. The intentionally put through a regime where motionless for hours on end
(Photo: PAF Archive)
has the unique honor of
Base has a considerably large training they are stripped of all individual sense of commanding all the
area which has a concrete foundation. self. All ranks are stripped away.” three components
This is where most of the exercises are of Special Forces
conducted, target practice and loaded This rationale is visible in other aspects of PAF during
arms handling. On one patch, trainees of life at the Base, as well. The trainees his career. In 2007,
wielding 7.62 caliber Kalashnikovs move live in rudimentary conditions. The living when the
with well-oiled precision, assuming arrangements, if they can be called that, Swat district
complex combat postures without missing are rugged camouflaged tents lined with SSW Snipers wait was taken over by an warfare, special undeniable advantage. Bottom Left: Eye of
a beat. Another group falls in for their sixth rough beds. These quarters are shared by unforeseen enemy, the reconnaissance ops, The PAF became their the Tiger - A special
physical training exercises of the day. For
with baited breath,
8 to 10 trainees, who are also responsible entire nation was gripped direct action by sabotage primary target.” reminisces service airman awaits
a major portion of the day, the only respite for their upkeep. The trainees get 3 meals in the strenuous by fear. Fortunately, the forces and offensive raiding to Wg Cdr Shakeel, holding a his enemy with a
mounted machine gun
for these trainees is the transition from a day, which is just as basic as the shelter prone position, for were well-prepared and jumped combat search and rescue sandwich as we are served and enough rounds to
one exercise to another. they are provided with. It’s a tough life, to hours. After an into the fray immediately. In Rah-e- missions (CSAR), the SSW tea on the open hatch of annihilate a battalion
(Photo: PAF Archive)
say the least. That is one of the reasons eternity of waiting, Haq II and III, the PAF SSW along made major contributions a Vigo. “The threat level
“You’ll notice that all these men have their the attrition for the course is so high. This a tiny target will with Pak Army carried out successful to eliminating one of the was sky-high. Buses full
allocated numbers written in chalk on is an unfortunate yet vital requisite, as the operations in mountainous terrain. gravest threats the nation of our children were being Bottom Right: Lethal
appear for a few abseiling-SSW men
their vests, on their front and back. The SSW men are usually selected to go up In the second battle of Swat, termed has ever faced. targeted, Bases were being
purpose of these numbers is more than against ludicrously unfavorable odds. The minutes and then Rah-e-Rast, PAF’s fighter assets also attacked. The Badaber and
rappel down a building
to ambush hostiles
just convenience in addressing them,” manifestation of this fact can be seen in disappear, that they took part alongside ground forces. “It was a short-lived victory. Minhas attacks are prime during a hostage
explains senior instructor Ishaaq, a young the skydiving and Para trooping courses of need to hit. The SSW played their part, as well. Insurgents had realized examples. The PAF lost rescue exercise.(Photo:
PAF Archive)
commando with a voice that echoes the SSW. From lazing targets, unconventional that crippling the air force several good men…men
would grant them an who we knew personally,

PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 30

 as well.” he confides, his voice Above: A skydiver gazes up
low. He sighs and puts down introspectively at the metal
bird that he jumped from in
the sandwich, untouched. this picture taken from a GoPro
camera. (Photo: PAF Archive)
Another area where the SSW
undergo strenuous training is
Close Quarters Combat (CQC) Bottom Left: Armed to the teeth:
operations. Such operations An SSW commando stands
ready for mission as a Helicopter
require trained personnel who
hovers above (Photo: PAF
storm into a room full of armed Archive)
hostiles, without a moment of
hesitation. The SSW are these
Right Page
rarest of men. “Close Quarter
Combat is a very complex Above Left: The Top Berets -
endeavor. It is crucial that Senior SSW Officers accompany
the Base Cdr on an exercise.
flooding the room is carried (Photo: PAF Archive)
out swiftly. There needs to be
very little delay in the first man Above Right: Leading from the
Top - Air Cdre Yousaf, drops out
entering the room and the last
of the sky in a graceful jump, PAF
man. Each man has their cone emblazoned on the chute and
of targets that he is to engage the green flag erect. (Photo: PAF
efficiently and exclusively. The Archive)

primary factors that come Center Left: Two SSW

into play are the element commandos enter a simulated
of surprise, which means close quarter combat arena. The
Maroon Berets are recognised
eliminating the target before for their battle readiness and
he gets over the shock. This proficiency (Photo: PAF Archive)
needs to be complimented
Bottom: Right: A prone
by maximum and constant
Commando wearing a ‘Snow
speed.” Elaborates Air Cdre Borne’ badge poses with his
Muhammad Yousaf, making deadly Minimi. (Photo: PAF
Archive)

31 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 32

a rough drawing to elucidate the process. “Next is what we It includes training commandos in counter-terrorist
call violence of action. You need to keep the firepower on to operations, hostage situations, room and compound
ensure constant pressure. Fearful enemies make mistakes, clearance, urban combat and skills of such nature.
which will give you openings.” “The teams of SSW are also participating in national
and international level exercises’, elaborates Air Cdre
“Every time you move into a room, you own it but only as Muhammad Yousuf. ‘The joint national and international
long as you’re in it. If you need to enter it again, there’s a exercises provide commandos with the exposure which is
huge chance that you’ll have to clear it again.” adds Wg Cdr a key factor in their overall grooming. This experience helps
Shakeel. them learn new tactics and methods in the ever-changing
5th generation warfare. Their training has made them more
The training of the personnel is carried out by the highly potent and formidable, a force not to mess-up with”, he
professional instructors, who are considered to be the assures.
back bone of training regime. The SSW instructors are all
commandos themselves because only real-life experience The SSW is a force that is bred and reared to take on
can enable you to train the best. From lectures, to handling insurmountable odds. The mission is their singular
weapons, to lazing, everything is taught by a veteran that obsession. They will obliterate any and all that stands
had done it in real-life scenarios. between them and the mission. This is what makes the
SSW men the most feared and capable warriors in the
To cater for ever-rising challenges in the security warfare nation’s arsenal.
scenario, SSW conducts specialized training of its troops
encompassing airborne, waterborne and land warfare
operations.

Wg Cdr Noor Baber falls out of the sky, the green flag
blazing in his wake, it’s carrier ready to hoist it into
the qualms of the earth. (Photo: Wg Cdr Mudasir)

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 S. KHALIL SPECIAL FEATURE

S
quash was once Left: Jehangir
Khan, widely
one of the most regarded as the
entertaining alternative greatest squash
sports in the Pakistani player of all time,
went five and a
culture. Today there half years without
are efforts to return to losing a single
game, lifts the
dominance and at the
coveted British
heart of this movement Open Trophy.
is the Pakistan Squash (Photo: PAF
Archive)
Federation. Fighting for
a brighter future, PSF is
offering aspiring athletes
to dream afar. But as they
say, squash is chess with Left: Jansher Khan,
speed and players have to who ruled the world
be very smart to compete. for a decade and
remained unbeaten
While PSF is challenging in 99 international
young athletes to redefine matches, holds
his well-earned
dimensions of the sport
trophy. (Photo: PAF
with sheer athleticism, it Archive)
is willing to lay it all out
on the line for them, to be
world number one again.

PAKISTAN: HOME OF CHAMPIONS

MONTHS AT NUMBER 1 (BY PLA)
Country No. of Players Total Players

3 215 Qamar Zaman, Jansher Khan, Jahangir Khan

Amr Shabana, Ramy Ashour, Karim

3 72 Darwish, Mohammed Al Shorbagy

3 66 Peter Nicol, Nick Mathew, James

Wilstrop, Lee Beachill

3 66 Geoff Hunt, David Palmer, Chris Dittmar

3 32 Peter Nicol, John White

3 23 Thierry Lincou, Gregory Gaultier

3 14 Johnathan Power

35 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 36

P
rofessional sports
athletes are always
under immense
pressure, trying to
balance personal as
well as external expectations. Add
exhausting workouts, meets, and
constant physical and mental stress
to the mix, being a pro is a lifestyle
choice that needs single mindedness,
dedication, and perseverance. It is
especially hard to deal with all this
when you are just a kid. But the
incredible talent of this little giant of
squash, is impossible to ignore. Meet
Huzaifa Ibrahim, a 14 year old athlete
from Karachi, who loves his family
and pets, and looks no different - an
ordinary teenager. But look a little
closer and there is nothing ordinary
about this kid who has numerous
titles to his credit.

In 2015, Huzaifa Ibrahim, had won

Malaysian Juniors International
Squash Championship, and went
on to win Doha International Junior
Squash Championship the same
year. He won the Qatar International
Junior Squash Championship in 2015
and 2016, and the gold under 13 in
Japan Junior International Squash
Championship. At present, he is the
undisputed Asian Junior Squash
Champion since 2015, and the only
Pakistani player in all formats Senior
and Junior, holding No 1 position
- the list is long and distinguished.
His fame keeps growing from
competition to competition.

Squash was not simply a passion

but a real calling for Huzaifa Ibrahim,
who is becoming more skillful than
older contenders. This prodigy has It all began with his father, a
Farhan Mehboob gives a tough
already put their skills to the test. time to Yousef Ibrahim from
If you do not put in the hours Pakistan Navy personnel, a
His competition, who are in no way Egypt during the final match of you can forget about winning “They play rough, try to block me, and push to dominate sportsman and a squash player.
mediocre themselves, know his 13th CNS International Squash 99 professional titles like the T-zone. It is a pressure tactic that often works,” said Huzaifa apparently inherited his
the young crusher. father, Subhan Ullah’s love for
capabilities. Often, in the resignation Championship held at Roshan Jansher Khan, the highest sports.
of defeat standing in front of their Khan Jahangir Khan Squash
by any player in squash and
eyes, older, taller players, with better Complex, Karachi in 2018. Huzaifa has got perfect timing on the shots with
reach, throw in intimidation during (Photo: Snr Tech Naveed)
World No 1 for more than ten tremendous power and is aiming for bigger competitions Huzaifa was trained to run almost as soon as he learnt
matches. consecutive years. right away. His childhood had groomed him for this how to walk. By the age of four, his father had already
eventuality. discussed the career of a professional squash player

37 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 38

 Passion and hard work necessary
to revive lost glory: AVM Amer Masood, SVP PSF

A
s we all know, it is not going to be easy to break
into the current top 10. It can take some years
to catch up with some of the strongest nations
such as Egypt and Malaysia to mention a few.
But Senior Vice President Pakistan Squash Federation
Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Amer Masood has a plan that
focuses on Pakistan’s junior players and their smooth
transition to professional level. “With continuous
support to the junior players, best training regime
and with international exposure, they will certainly
become world-class players,” said AVM Amer Masood.
In his mind, one key component to future success is
rehabilitation and improving standards of academies
and squash courts. He believes that by offering young
players, as young as 8 to 10 years old, incentives such
with him. Subhan Ullah decided to as support in education and by offering scholarships, the better results can be achieved. He also intends to
pass on his skills and trained his send a few players to be based overseas for
form from a young age. The child training and participate in competitions to help
adapted to a daily regimen. raise their playing level.
“I knew from the get-go that my With continuous
He laments that only cricket enjoyed massive
son would be a professional patronage from Pakistan commercialization and media attention.
sportsman,” Subhan Ullah said with
pride in his voice.
Air Force, which adopted Squash, he believes is as grand if one
the sport of squash in the considers and reassesses the essentials of
sport. “I strongly believe that squash deserves
Professionals claim his style of the Pakistani squash champions 1970s, Jansher Khan won as much importance and patronage based on
reminds them of trademark features in our history, and they were all about
of Pakistani squash legends such as
the British Open six times the fact that squash is played at a larger scale
discipline, training, and fitness.” and most important that we were champions
Hashim Khan, Mohibullah Khan Senior If you do not put in the hours you can in a row - 1992 to 1997,
for decades. We are now hosting more
and Roshan Khan - strong hits, quick forget about winning 99 professional and won World Open a international squash tournaments”, he argued.
reaction, and a creative approach to titles like Jansher Khan, the highest
attacks.
record eight times. His “This will help the host country enormously.
by any player in squash and World There is much to be done within the next few
No 1 for more than ten consecutive retirement brought to years and one strategy would be to hold more
That’s what it takes to be a champion, years. “Jansher Khan was late when end nearly 50 years of and more events in this attractive country”,
ruler of the game for two decades Amer Masood said.
during the 1970s and 1980s, Qamar
he started out but went on to win the domination by Pakistan
world junior championship for the first
Zaman said. “He is pretty much time ever in 1986, and won world open
in squash tournaments. Amer Masood is particularly turning to squash
created out of the same mold as some legends for assistance in training and motivation
title in 1987, before winning the world
of youngsters as well as to strengthen squash
academies. He encourages girls as much as boys
Above: Men who made a to take up sports and for this he is offering equal
nation famous - Portraits of
Pakistan’s best in squash.
opportunities. “Our focus will remain on improving
(Photo: PAF Archive) the game of aspiring squash players and support a
BRITISH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP Right Page Above: AVM
balanced development of our sport from grass roots
to the top level. Our players should be competing
WINNING STREAK BY PAKISTANI CHAMPIONS Amer Masood, SVP PSF
addressing sports journalists
professionally by the time they are 16 and 19 years
old,” the senior official said underlying plans for the
during a meeting in
Islamabad future.
Unbroken Streak No. of Players Names (Photo: PAF Archive)

Hashim Khan, Roshan Khan, Right Page Bottom: Air Vice

1951-1963 (12 Years) 3 Marshal Amer Masood along
Azam Khan, Mo Khan
with winners of International
Junior Squash tournament
1962-1997 (35 Years) 2 Jahangir Khan, Jansher Khan at Mushaf Squash Complex,
Islamabad
(Photo: AWO Iftikhar)

39 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 40

junior championship title again in to 50, 000 young squash players, only win seven medals in
Unsung HEROES
BALL OF FAME
1988,” said Squash legend Qamar men and women bring their own total. “When we took over in
Zaman. By the time Jansher Khan flair to the sport. Following closely March 2017, we wanted to
was 18, he had beaten, arguably at their heels are Malaysia, which There isn’t a track record of too many of the steps taken to reach said goal,” understand the reasons for
the fittest man on the planet and prepares 30, 000 players every year. elite-level coaches taking the helm of said Coach Asif Khan. “Our emphasis our demise in squash. For
World No 1 Jahangir Khan in the Compare all that with Pakistan that professional squash in the last two decades. in on execution,” says Fazal Shah who three months we studied the Jahangir Khan
(Born Dec 1963)
Hong Kong Open. With continuous has less than 1, 000 young squash The two national coaches Asif Khan and is always on the sidelines, yet being American model, the British
patronage from Pakistan Air Force, enthusiasts and even lesser active Fazal Shah and their wealth of knowledge and Australian, and how the World Open Titles: 6
British Open Titles: 10
which adopted the sport of squash players - 300 or so. Pakistan has not in squash seem right for the positions. If Malaysians became better.
in the 1970s, Jansher Khan won been able to reclaim its glory days anything, the Pakistan Airforce has been They all led to the Egyptian
the British Open six times in a row - since 1995-96. known to choose the best from every model. And the Egyptians
1992 to 1997, and won World Open were following the Pakistan
Jansher Khan
discipline - a proof of their keen observation (Born June 1969)

a record eight times. His retirement But that is now changing. After and foresight. Even though Rehman Gul model,” said Secretary
World Open Titles: 8
brought to end nearly 50 years of March 2018, under the patronage has been recently added, nothing short of Pakistan Squash Federation British Open Titles: 6
domination by Pakistan in squash of Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar a performance of the finest of coaches is Gp Capt Tahir Sultan.
tournaments. Khan, young squash players have expected of him once his players participate The Egyptians studied
participated in 20 international in international events. Pakistani players - their wrist Hashim Khan
Today, the Egyptians are killing it junior tournaments and won 81 movements, their swing from (Jan 1914-Aug 2014)

in the world of squash. The top 20 medals - 36 gold medals in junior Coach.. this term is borrowed heavily the point of grip, and drop British Open Titles: 7
players of the world are made up of championships. In a recent event shots, said Tahir Sultan. “But
by other professions.. like life coaching.
ten Egyptians, including World No 1. for juniors, a batch of nine Pakistani the most important factor
Not only is it a highly trained and learned
The sheer numbers of their young players brought back one gold and the Egyptians learnt from us
response, it’s a visceral experience where
players dwarfs every other country. two bronze medals compared with and incorporated into their
you put so much of yourself in the person
A whole new generation of 40, 000 112 players from Egypt who could system was the importance
you are coaching, you experience their
highs as well as their lows personally. The of fitness of our player,” he emphasized.
level of commitment and mindfulness that
As the war on terror started to take shape there was an angry and violent mood
must go in it is not easy to grasp. “It’s
lurking over the country. This mood landed on the sport of squash and knocked
almost like parenting someone. You are attuned enough to be able to navigate it flat on its back. The country had a ringside seat to human tragedy, described
aware of the dreams and aspirations of and charter the athlete’s every move, Secretary PSF Tahir Sultan. “It took us more than a decade to deny oxygen to the
your athlete, yet you have to keep things in his trajectory, both physical as well as perpetual flame of terror. Because of all the violence, the International Squash
perspective so the pupil doesn’t lose sight emotional. Federation banned events in Pakistan.
Youngsters had nothing to follow,”
Tahir Sultan lamented.
Left: A thrust worth a thousand
punches - Huzaifa Ibrahim In February 2017, it took five months
caught just before his racquet to convince world bodies that Pakistan
hits during final of Junior Squash was a safe venue to host international
Championship held at Mushaf tournaments. The previous ban took
Squash Complex, Islamabad. five years to remove.
(Photo: PAF Archive) “We invited top Egyptian players for
competitions against our best. This
sent a strong message that Pakistan
THE UNCONQUERABLE RACQUETS: is serious about reclaiming its position
in the world of squash,” the senior
UNBROKEN GLOBAL STREAKS BY PAKISTANIS official said.
Right: A leap towards victory
Player Total Global Titles Unbroken Streak - Farhan Zaman stretches to
The PAF management has rolled
catch the during the final of CAS
out a plan that offers the
Hashim Khan 7 1951-1957 (6 Years) Squash Open held at Mushaf
best facilities, best
Squash Complex, Islamabad.
equipment and
Azam Khan 4 1959-1962 (4 Years) (Photo: PAF Archive)
the perfect
environment
Jahangir Khan 16 1981-1987 (6 Years) to aspiring
squash
players.

41 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 42

 A Star is REBORN...
Muhammad Humza Khan, two hours before school solid names. In Humza
is one of the youngest starts and hits the courts Khan, former squash
champions, is also one of again for another five hours players and enthusiasts
the grittiest. He does not after it finishes. “It is a tough see a lot of success stories
believe winning is a one game and competition is and the sport of squash
time thing. “It is an all time even harder. If you are not truly ascending towards
thing,” he told the editorial going all the way, why go greatness. “Athletes do
team of Second to None. at all. That’s how my father brilliantly and earn a name
Looking in extremely good explained it to me,” the young for themselves. But it is
form, 14-year-old Hamza champion said - winner of the stories of sportsmen

At the HELM
Khan tamed England’s Yusuf 9 gold and 3 silver medals turning failures into
Sheikh, in just 16 minutes, since he started playing successes. Something
registering a 11-4, 11-3, professionally four years like that has real flavour
11-7 victory in the final at ago. His confidence grows and something one can all All athletes need motivation and constant reminders to be at their best
Birmingham. His victory at when he plays against older, take inspiration from,” said
the Under 15 British Junior stronger, and experienced former Squash Champion during both practice as well as competition. Building a winning team, Chief
Open Championship, has players. “I believe I can Qamar Zaman. As for of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan,
given a new life to Pakistan achieve anything when I beat Humza Khan, he has every an inspirational war planner and master motivator in sports, encourages
squash as the country tougher opponents,” he said. intention of making winning
regained the title after eight a habit. “You don’t do things young squash players to go beyond all previous limits.
long years. He is considered Secretary Pakistan Squash right once in a while, you do
one of the leading players of Federation Tahir Sultan them right all the time.
his time. “I knew I was going describes Humza In a country where people’s hearts are captured by cricket, and its national
to win,” he said. Khan as one team, Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, steps up, to give his time
of the core and energy to develop and manage the sport of squash and regain its hold
Humza’s attitude is players, and
contagious and worth is one of the again. His words of encouragement sends aspiring young players into a
catching. He believes in game’s most new territory to achieve the highest levels of performance.
extreme work ethic. “I am consistently
more excited about practice.
It is my classroom,” Humza Mujahid Anwar Khan has established a strong tour calendar that reflects
Khan said, who trains for his passion and commitment towards the sport. At PSF, everyone is so
appreciative of the support he is extending.

It is working towards providing jobs in these players. Above: A Flying Start

- Young Hamza is
the air force as well as creating work
not ready to concede
opportunities in departments such as “Above all we have complete support anything to his opponent,
WAPDA, Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority from President of PSF, Air Chief Marshal a picture of commitment
(OGRA) etc. Moving forward, the PSF Mujahid Anwar Khan, who ensures and class of its own
(Photo: Online website)
wants to continue these efforts in tandem participation of Pakistani players in
with scholarships for aspiring players maximum international events at home
Right page bottom:
who are trained by coaches to produce and abroad. That kind of exposure is vital
Huzaifa Ibrahim after
pro athletes. With significant support to instill confidence in young players,” winning the U-15
from the Serena Hotels that sponsor Tahir Sultan said, optimistic about Japan Junior Open
international squash competitions in the Pakistan’s return to its former glory in this International Squash
tournament-2019
country, Pakistan Squash Federation will arena. (Photo: Online website)
cover every cost incurred in supporting

43 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 44

With these efforts, the Since Jahangir Khan’s scoring
PSF intends to restore records remain unmatched, Qamar
the trust of parents in Zaman rallies around young players
squash as a promising career to develop exemplary work ethics,
choice worthy of their time and stringing consistency together, and
effort. Hamza Khan Bows: overwhelmed with gratitude and relief after a win. All Smiles – Winners of Under-15 British Junior Open Championship
putting in their 110 percent.
(Photo: PAF Archive) receiving a hero’s welcome at Islamabad International Airport.
“Once set on a course of action, we (AWO Bilal) “It means training five to six hours and ripping
can be an unstoppable force and make off that plaster. That is how magic works.
it back into the top ten world ranking in the Anything less and you’ll be breaking my heart,” his
next four to five years,” he adds. reverence for the game is evident.

Former squash champion Qamar Zaman says Suddenly the country has a hero and the nation is
that Pakistan is lacking in youth that aspire to be entranced. At 14, he is already a role model to a new
champions in squash. “We need squash players that generation of Pakistanis. Growing up idolizing Jahangir
can be sporting equivalents of Jahangir Khan, who by Khan and Jansher Khan, Hamza Khan has the same
age 17, became the youngest player to ever win the message that the two champions had for aspiring athletes, “If
World Championship title. He was unbeaten for six you have a burning ambition and desire, absolutely anything is
years between 1992 to 1997. During this time he won possible.”...
555 consecutive matches, the highest winning streak
by any player in any game ever.”

Aamir Atlas and Azlan Iskandar from Malaysia locked in a

deadly battle during an international match (Photo: PAF Archive)

41
45 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 42
46
TRIBUTE MUHAMAMD KHAN
of Hercules being shot down with C-in-C onboard,
makes him uncomfortable. He pleads the air chief
to re consider his decision as the consequences
could be fatal. God forbid, if the aircraft was hit or
goes down due to any reason, the news would shock
the nation taking the morale of the forces to a rock
bottom - simply put, Pakistan would lose the war
before it began. But all his efforts went in vain, Air
Marshal Nur Khan boarded the aircraft, led the
mission from the front and made history.
The mission was a complete success.
Why wouldn’t he? He was the man
who had the ability to turn the
tables of apparent fate. His ability
to lead from the front was one of
his prime character traits which
symbolizes him, the other
was sheer courage against

A
all odds….the example is as
follows.
C-130 Hercules (also the Officer Commanding of the world’s highest mountains, Bottom: The Air
stands battle No 35 CAT wing), and his crew itself offered unsurmountable Chief posing in
the cockpit of On the morning of 20th January
ready, in a pitch had never flown a sortie like this dangers. 1978, a fanatic individual
‘Star Fighter’
dark night of late before. Rations, supplies and geared up and named Nazir from Mianwali
August 1965, its ammo were badly needed by As the chocks are about to be ready to go attempted to hijack a flight
engines roaring our own ground troops across removed, a staff car appears (Photo: PAF
PK-543, armed with a revolver
and rumbling, its ramp and the border in IHK. And there was on the tarmac, a three-star flag Archive)
and a dynamite stick. The plane
door wide open as the final only way of achieving this prime flapping on the bonnet. The landed at Karachi Airport. Chairman
preparations went underway. objective - an aerial delivery OC Flying gets off the aircraft, Right: Air Chief
PIA Air Marshal (Retd) Malik Nur Khan
The tarmac of PAF Station sortie by a PAF Hercules in the perplexed, to greet none other Nur Khan stares
immediately proceeded to negotiate with
Chaklala echoed with the dead of pitch dark night. The than the Commander-in-Chief of into the camera
the hijacker through a cockpit window.
deafening noise produced by outcome of ground operations the PAF, Air Marshal Nur Khan. with a gaze
The Air Marshal presented himself as
the four turbo-prop engines of heavily depended on the success The air chief inquired if the that could tell a
a hostage if the hijacker would let the
the mighty Hercules. However, of this sortie, putting the stakes plane was ready, and informs million words.
passengers leave, among other offers. The
there was pin drop silence in the high for the PAF. The challenge him in a firm manner that he (Photo: PAF
hijacker refused. As the hours passed, the
cockpit-the atmosphere inside faced by the crew was two-fold. was going to lead the mission Archive)
entire episode turned into a anxious waiting
the flight deck was tense; the On one hand, Hercules being a himself. Wing Commander game, the passengers and the crews’ lives
grave faces of crew indicated heavy bird with its slow speed Zahid was shocked; as the hanging by a thread in the hands of a man who
that they were about to launch becomes a sitting duck when it clouds of war loomed over the had nothing left to live for.
on a special mission - a mission comes under the susceptibility of horizon, the Commander-in-
which could prove to be their last. enemy ground fire. On the other, Chief of the Air Force wished to Around midnight, the hijacker stated that he wanted
Wing Commander Salahuddin the intended mission, through the board a plane which had a one- to talk to the authorities. In response, Air Marshal Nur
Zahid Butt, the Captain of aircraft treacherous valleys lying between way flight plan. The thoughts Khan entered the aircraft to negotiate with the hijacker.
In the hour that followed, the Air Marshal sat
opposite the hijacker, penetrating him
with eyes that glowed with a calm
more dangerous than any
fathomable storm. They
talked in the closed
confines of the
F27 cabin. When
the Air Marshal
found the opening
he was waiting
for, he pounced
and struggled
to snatch away
the revolver from
the hijacker’s
hands. In the

47 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e

ensuing fight, the hijacker shot Nur Khan point blank. Indian Military College at Dehra command of Flt Lt Erlic Pinto. Interestingly - the
However, the unconquerable Air Marshal, despite Dun. Consequently, he learned other Flt Cdr of the Sqn was none other than PC
being shot, managed to overcome the hijacker and flying at the Lahore Flying Lal, who later went on to command the IAF in
rescue the hostages. Later, he recovered quickly Club Walton, getting his pilot’s 1971.
from the gunshot wound and was awarded the A-license on Tiger Moth biplane.
Hilal-e-Shujaat, a worthy addition to the Hilal-e-Jurat This is where he undertook his first dive-bombing
he already possessed for his formidable role as Air He was commissioned as a sorties. He also served the role of the Squadron
Chief in the 1965 war. This incident personifies thefighter pilot in the Royal Indian Sports Officer, a role which would be the first
Air Force at the ripe age of
Air Marshal in his entirety, a man who overcame all to stepping stone towards his great contribution
seventeen years. He was made
achieve what he had set sights on. And like the Greek to sports on a national level. The squadron later
God Midas, turned everything he touched, into gold. part of the auspicious 6th Pilot acquired the Hawker Hurricane fighter-bomber,
Course (PC) of RIAF. The course
This is the story of a legend who is truly remembered on which Nur Khan also gained mastery.
in our history as ‘A Man with Midas touch’. included Plt Off Asghar Khan,
Plt Off M Akhtar and Plt Off M His skills were put to the test when he became
Malik Nur Khan was born to a military household in M A Cheema; all of whom have part of the No 9 Squadron and fought the
Nur Khan’s plane would
1923 in Taman. His maternal grandfather was the become renowned names in Japanese army in Burma, still flying the
Nawab of Kalabagh. After a promising youth in which PAF’s history. The course was appear on the horizon as Hurricane. His comrades tell of a time where reputation. His love of flying led
he showed ample promise, he graduated from Royal the first union of a small group a silhouette, giving the seeing him land his aircraft was a spectacle in him to test and master every
of Muslim officers who impression of normalcy. itself. Nur Khan’s plane would appear on the plane inducted into the PAF till
later went on to form the horizon as a silhouette, giving the impression of the last days of his career, flying
As he would approach Top Right: Sqn Ldr Nur Khan along
the likes of F-104, F-6 and the
backbone of the then normalcy. As he would approach a discernible with Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan
infant Pakistani Air Force. a discernible range, range, spectators would realize that he was, at RPAF Station Mauripur. Mirage III aircraft to their full
spectators would realize in fact, flying his Hurricane in an inverted (Photo: PAF Archive) potential.
His first posting was to that he was, in fact, position! Amid gasps of awe and admiration,
No 3 Squadron at Kohat, he would approach the runaway for landing. As Pakistan was about to gain
flying his Hurricane in an Bottom: Malik Nur Khan stands tall
its independence, officers
where he quickly mastered With immaculate timing, he would lower the on the tarmac with his ‘Star Fighter’
the Hawker Audax. Over
inverted position! undercarriage, which owing to his orientation making it hard to distinguish which of were asked to opt for either
the years he was involved would open upwards, the two is more formidable India or Pakistan. Fortunately
in numerous successful Top Right: Nur Khan, in his early days and execute a roll while (Photo: PAF Archive) yet unsurprisingly, Nur Khan
sorties in Miranshah which (Photo: PAF Archive) dispensing flares. The fact alongwith Asghar Khan opted
granted him a promotion that such a young officer for PAF.
Left: A family man through and
to the rank of Flg Off in could undertake such
through: A prolific picture of Nur Khan Malik Nur Khan was eventually
1942. with his wife, Farhat Nur Khan and a maneuver gave
their first child (Photo: PAF Archive) him an enviable made the Commander in Chief
He was made a part of the of PAF. However even before
No 7 Squadron in 1944, Bottom: The Air Chief receives a he held the reins of the entirety
where he was under the guard of honour at a USAF base of PAF, his tenure was filled to
(Photo: PAF Archive) the brim with achievements.
PAF College Risalpur is the
prestigious institute it is today
owing largely to the fact that Nur
Khan was its commandant in
its early years. He commanded
PAF Station Mauripur and
spearheaded the procurement of
F-86s. He also accomplished the
task of converting the air force
from piston to jet-engine aircraft
which proved to be a game-
changer for PAF.

PIA:
He was appointed the Managing
Director PIA and Chief
Administrator of Civil Aviation
and Tourism in March 1959. PIA
acquired its first Jetliner, Boeing
707-321, under his command.
He remained the MD of PIA from
1959-6 and again in 1973.

49 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 50

This is remembered as the No 10 Div records “At this Top: All SJ’s in one
Golden Era of PIA. Nations from crucial juncture, appeared 06 frame-AM Nur Khan
With PAF officer’s who
all over the world followed PIA’s PAF Sabres led by Squadron were awarded with
model to erect leading airlines. Leader Sajjad “Nosey” SJ’s during 1965 war.
PIA became the first Asian Haider and wrought havoc (Photo: PAF Archive)
Airline to operate jet engine with the enemy armor and
aircraft. The green and golden infantry trying to cross the Bottom Left: Men who
colors became the symbol BRB Canal”. By September wrote history-
of elegance and luxury. PIA 7th, the PAF had annihilated Air Marshal Nur
Investment Limited was Nur 50 IAF aircraft on ground Khan shakes hands
Khan’s brainchild and it moved with his predecessor
and in the air and damaged
Asghar Khan during
into the hospitality sector, as 8. This does not take into change of command
well. The body managed hotels account the damage incurred ceremony (Photo: PAF
already owned by PIA and by the enemy in PAF’s night Archive)
bought new ones. These hotels bombing. The engagement
Bottom Right: MD PIA
included the likes of Roosevelt of assets by Air Marshal Nur Malik Nur Khan flying
in New York, Serena Swat, Khan played an instrumental a commercial aircraft
Serena Gilgit, Madison Avenue role in achieving victory over himself is the perfect
in Manhattan, Minhal in Riyadh a bigger adversary. PAF’s F-104 Star the time… but we were wary that the chief wouldn’t have manifestation of
and Scribe in Paris. Fighters, B-57s and Sabres inflicted to carry out his threat,”he says with a smirk. his habit of steering
progress with his own
Omar Kureishi, writer- dire damage to IAF’s Gnats, Hunters hands. (Photo: PAF
broadcaster who worked with and Mysteres. The successful and After the ceasefire of the 1965, Pakistan was put under Archive)
him at PIA, deemed him to be swift deployment of C-130 fleet for sanctions and arms embargo from the US. Nur Khan
of “clear-cut views on most night bombing, a first at the time, is rallied the nation’s allies and asked China for assistance. He personally made 2
matters, a closed mind but one another example Nur Khan’s innovative visits to China to procure F-6s. The second procurement that the Air Marshal has
mettle might have faltered, battles; better training, morale Top: Straight out of
who leaves a window open. Hollywood - Like a strategy. to his credit is the French Mirage. The task was not an easy one as the French
Air Marshal Nur Khan stood and above all fighting spirit in
That was his management world-war era movie star, was reluctant to give Pakistan Military assistance. However, owing to Nur Khan’s
immovable against an airforce fact are the deciding factors.”
style, an impatient man
Air Marshal Nur Khan
Even under the overwhelming weight persistence and charisma, the first of the Mirages III Es landed in Sargodha in
bigger in size and much better The events that followed gazes out at the horizon,
who was result-oriented, a of war, Nur Khan never lost his sense 1968.
equipped. It was his adroit war proved him right. a fierce yet determined
competitive man because he tactics that laid waste to the He ordered a ‘Red Alert’ on face beneath a classic of right and wrong. Wing Commander
sought the best, brooked no conceited dream of having a 1st September, an action aviator helmet. (Photo: Aman ullah (SJ) was a F86 pilot who Nur Khan in Sports:
nonsense.” PAF Archive) remembers an interesting episode of Air Marshal Nur Khan had always taken a keen interest in sports. This interest
cocktail party in Gymkhana which gave PAF sufficient
the war in an interview. “I was part of a was transformed into the practical when he was handed the reins of the Pakistan
Lahore which was being time to prepare for the war.
C-in-C and 1965 war: Bottom Left: PIA
sortie which was to target the Amritsar Hockey Federation. During his tenure, Pakistan made a name for itself on the
shamelessly touted by General As the conflicts began, Soars-The national
He came to his true calling Radar,” he says. “The radar was very global arena. In his time,
Chaudhry of the Indian Army. Nur Khan implemented an airline under Nur Khan’s
when he was appointed the close to the revered Golden Temple of Pakistan won 2 Olympic
offensive strategy plan for the leadership launched the
sixth Commander in Chief The start of the war marked devastation of enemy assets first Boeing 707 Jet, the the Sikhs. When being briefed about Gold Medals, 2 Hockey Even before he became the President
of PAF on 23rd July 1965, first nation to do so in the mission, Malik Nur Khan told the World Cups and 2 Hockey of the Hockey Federation, Nur Khan
with Sqn Ldr Aftab Alam on the ground using effective
replacing the legendary Air the region (Photo: PAF
pilots that under no circumstances Champions Trophies.
destroying an IAF Mystere and and well-timed air strikes. nurtured young talent through
Archive)
Marshal Asghar Khan. The damaging another. It was the Simultaneously, preparations was the Golden Temple to be damaged
Air Marshal had his work cut Even before he became unconventional yet effective methods.
first missile kill for the PAF. On were made to defend air Bottom Right: The Air and if anybody did commit the folly of
out for him as he assumed 4th September, Air Marshal bases if needed. Chief receives the Shah hitting it, the Air Chief would personally the president of the There would be six to seven Pakistanis
control, with 1965 war with of Iran during a visit shoot him on the runaway when he Hockey Federation, Nur among the global top 10
Nur Khan said in a press
India looming over the horizon. (Photo: PAF Archive) lands! We all roared with laughter at Khan nurtured young
conference “Superiority in Just two days into the war,
Where many other men of numbers does not decide air the diary of Pakistan Army’s

51 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 52

talent through unconventional players like Azam Khan,
yet effective methods. One of Jahangir Khan, Qamar Zaman,
the ingenious way he promoted Gogi Allauddin, Jansher Khan,
Squash in the nation was during Mo Khan Junior and others.
his second term in PIA in 1973. He There used to be six to seven
laid the foundation of the PIA Colts Pakistanis among the top 10
scheme. Young squash players who in the world rankings at any
displayed promise were scouted and given time.
given monthly stipends. They were
taken to participate in international Nur Khan made major
tournaments on the expense of contributions to the arena
PIA. Whoever performed well in of Cricket, as well. He was
international events was promised appointed the President Board
employment in the PIA. This lucrative of Control for Cricket (Now
incentive plan bore fruit and Pakistan Pakistan Cricket Board) in
was blessed with world class squash 1980. He earned the hosting several radical reforms in the region.
rights for the 1987 Cricket World In an interview with Javaid Chaudry,
Cup. He introduced the idea of Nur Khan reminisces “Once President
neutral umpires and match referee. Ayub Khan called me for a meeting,
As president of the Legends like Miandad and Imran he was 4 minutes late. I returned
Pakistan Hockey Federation Khan remember him a as firm yet without meeting him even though I
he gave the Junior World considerate administrator, keeping was a subordinate. He came to my
the team content while elevating the office the next day by himself.”
Cup and Champions Trophy
sport through his farsighted policies
to the world of hockey. and steps. His illustrious career has caused
Under him Pakistan Hockey some to call him the Man with the
Midas touch, drawing parallels to the Top Left: Air Chief during his second tenure as MD
scaled the greatest of Legacy: PIA, during which he arranged the first passenger
In 1969, Nur Khan retired from the legendary king Midas, who turned
heights in its history; flight to China from a non-communist nation, in
military. However, his retirement everything he touched into solid gold. 1964 (Photo: PAF Archive)
possessing all the top titles On a national scale, he was awarded
was overturned by President Yahya
from the Olympics, World who appointed him as the Chief several laurels including end on the 15th of December, 2011, leaving Center Left: Forever an advocate of peace: Air
Cup, Champions Trophy and Top Right : The commemorative postal stamp Marshal Nur Khan welcomes his counter part, IAF
Martial Law Administrator. He was HJ, HS, SPk and SQA. behind an incomparable legacy. He was
issued by Pakistan Post in the memory of the Air Chief Arjan Singh on his visit to Pakistan after
to the Asia Cup at the given the post of Cabinet Minister Internationally, he was survived by his wife, Begum Farhat and four the 1965 war. (Photo: PAF Archive)
Air Marshal (Photo: PAF Archive)
of communication, health, labor endowed with the Order children, a son and 3 daughters. He was
same time.
and science on August 1969. He Bottom: Forever vigilant - Malik Nur Khan of Istiqlal (2nd Class) by given a farewell in the PAF Complex E-9 Top Right: Not just an Air Force man: The former Air
was subsequently appointed as the inspects the preparedness of Cadets during a the King of Jordan and Islamabad, the proceeding attended by Air Chief takes his oath as Governor of West Pakistan
Governor of West Pakistan and made Passing out parade (Photo: PAF Archive) the Commander of the Chiefs, Generals, politicians and the common in 1969. (Photo: PAF Archive)
National Order by the man. He was later laid to rest with full military Bottom: A legend’s last flight to heaven - The
President of Lebanon. honors in his native town of Taman. The funeral procession of the great Air Marshal with full
He was also honored government of Pakistan issued a Postal military honors (Photo: PAF Archive)
with the award of Grand Stamp to commemorate his legacy. Another
Officer in the order of great tribute was the PAF renaming one of its
Range Nassau with Main Operating Bases at Chaklala after his
Swords by the Dutch name as ‘PAF Base Nur Khan’.
Government. He also
garnered praise from
the Israeli President,
who also was the
Commander of the
Israeli Air Force and
Minister of Defense
who wrote in his
autobiography “Nur
Khan was a formidable
fellow and I was glad
that he was Pakistani
and not Egyptian”.
His long distinguished
life came to a dignified

53 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 54

 S. KHALIL TRIBUTE

T
he roaring turbo-prop engines of the mighty Hercules winds down and there
is complete silence. The aircraft presents a solemn, soaked figure in the
heavy rain, parked morosely on the tarmac of PAF Base Mushaf. Its crew
had to undertake a task which can bring the strongest of men to their knees;
they had to fly in the remains of their fallen comrade. The Hercules lowers
its ramp. The crew gets down and salutes in honor of the martyr. Amidst
roaring thunder claps and incessant rain, the casket of the fallen warrior emerges from
behind the C-130. The coffin is wrapped in green and white, colors for which he
lived his entire life, and colors for which he breathed his last.

Arranged in two flanks, comrades from all rank and files present to Shaheed,
an arms salute. The sky shakes with another clap of thunder but the gathered
remain unmoved. The funeral prayers are offered sombrely and the Shaheed
starts the journey which would be his last. Leading the congregation is none
Fellow fighter pilots, seniors and his colleagues will remember other than Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, himself, who salutes as the
casket is lifted. The men in blue pay homage to their fallen brother, the
Wg Cdr Nauman Akram (Shaheed) for the wonderful and
one and only Wg Cdr Nauman Akram (Shaheed).
brave pilot that he was. He had a passion for flying and
the honour to serve his country. His, is a story of guts To the family of Wg Cdr Nauman Akram, there is nothing that can
and glory. His records were enviable, which grew be said that will take away or lessen the pain they are feeling.
What they can be told is that they are not alone in their grief.
systematically, and soared into PAF’s history after
In Mushaf Air Force Base Sargodha, officers are having a hard
winning the coveted Top Gun title ‘Sher Afgan’. time envisioning a life without their fallen comrade. “He was an
He embodied the spirit of a PAF officer through integral part of our team and our hearts are heavy with his loss,”
the principled life he led and unselfishly, time said Base Commander, Air Cdre Ali Naeem.
and again, gave himself to this nation.
For protecting their liberty and Wg Cdr Nauman Akram took off for Islamabad on a hazy day
with heavy clouds lurking towards east. He passed above the
freedom till the very last, his parade ground close to the speed of sound. With the roar of
countrymen will always his F-16, louder than the boom of splitting atoms, he pulled up
remain in debt to him. into a high pitched climb. It was a beautiful manoeuvre, people
gathered below were enthralled. What happened next has now
become part of the history. We will never truly know his final
thoughts or the split second decisions he may have taken. But
the trajectory of the crash was such that nearby civilians lives
on the ground were saved.

The din of disbelief at Mushaf was palpable. Eyes searched for the fallen
comrade. “We kept expecting him to walk through those doors any minute.
It took us the whole day, and then some, to come to terms with the altered
reality. Sqn Ldr Ammar Shoaib, one of his under command officers said.

Born into a military family, Nauman Akram joined PAF after his FSc, living
and loving the role that would shape his future. He was proud of being a
fighter pilot in the Pakistan Air Force and deemed it his highest achievement.
He had completed various training programmes ranging from conversion
courses from one jet fighter to another as well as Senior Command and
Staff Courses. After finishing a four-year tenure in Qatar, Nauman Akram
was appointed as Flight Commander Operations till May 2019. From then
on the Wg Cdr was appointed as OC No 9 Squadron, which was also his
last held position.

Besides being awarded Chief of Air Staff Commendation Certificates as

well as Excellence Badge, in 2019, Nauman Akram was bestowed Tamgha-
e-Basalat for his service during Operation Zarb-e-Azb. In October, 2019,
Nauman Akram won the Sher Afghan trophy during the Inter-Squadron

55 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 56

 “To be the OC of one of the elite
squadrons is to be the best of the best.
That says it all about Nauman Akram,”
Jahanzeb Khan said.

Those who served with Wg Cdr

Nauman Akram believe that their
passion and commitment would not
burn so brightly if it were not for the
example and guidance of their dear
friend.

Armament Competition (ISAC). His “He was a loving husband to his wife, Base Commander, Air Cdre Ali Naeem,
No 9 Squadron came in second place. an amazing father to his two children, was one of Nauman’s instructors and
COAS: “Laying one’s
and our fellow warrior and friend - a described the Shaheed as the one
“To win the Sher Afghan trophy is friend who could be trusted in the
life is the ultimate sacrifice
whose mind was rarer than radium.
one of the highest honours. But he toughest of times. Always courteous one can make for defence of “He was the sharpest officer. His
was such a strong team player that and polite, his presence would make the motherland. May his soul mind absorbed lessons like a sponge
his preference of a team win would you want to be on that next level of rest in peace. My thoughts absorbs water. He executed a task
outweigh that of an individual win. mannerisms and respect. The world and sincere prayers for the with grease lightening ease,” Air Cdre
He always put his squadron before needs more people like him, with Ali Naeem reminisced. “We are proud friends and family members, take comfort Above: The Griffin Squad:
bereaved family.” Wg Cdr Nauman Akram
himself. Nauman used to say that a big heart,” said one of his under of the training system we have, our in their faith, and the knowledge that Wg Cdr
(Shaheed), OC No 9
he would swap his Sher Afghan command pilots who knew Nauman men are trained for challenges. His Nauman Akram sacrificed his life doing what Squadron, along with his
trophy for the ISAC title any day,” said, Akram as a professional that was Above Left: PAF’s Top Gun-Wg Cdr loss is a solemn reminder of the he loved best: serving his country and pursuing Unit officers, a picture of
Sqn Ldr Ammar Shoaib, who was not only proficient at his job, but also Nauman Akram (Shaheed) receiving the his lifelong dream to be a fighter pilot in the class and intimidation.
Sher Afgan trophy from the Chief of Air
dangerous work that airmen do every (Photo: PAF Archive)
Nauman Akram’s wingman during the passionate about it. Staff, after a stellar performance in the day.” Despite the inherent risks, flying Pakistan Air Force.
competition last year. Inter Squadron Armament Competition. is also the reward for pilots. For them
(Photo: Snr Tech Asad)
So much so that the Wg Cdr was the show must go on. His colleagues, “We will never forget his smile that started with
Fellow fighter pilots, seniors and his selected to fly Chief of Army Staff, his eyes,” said Sqn Ldr Ammar Shoaib. Bottom: A Griffin’s Last
colleagues will remember Wg Cdr General Qamar Javed Bajwa, in his Flight - PAF personnel lift
Above Right: PAF’s top gun Wg Cdr
Nauman Akram Shaheed for the F-16, during his visit to the Base, Wg Cdr Nauman’s (Shaheed)
Nauman Akram poses in front of his F16, CAS: “The martyred pilot casket while others presents
wonderful and brave pilot that he recently. calm and glorious. (Photo: PAF Archive)
was. As they reminisced about their laid down his life for the arms salute during funeral
perade at PAF Base Mushaf
fallen comrade, their memories and The Air Force is a close-knit family, sacred motherland. His (Photo: PAF Archive)
anecdotes were a testament of the and the loss of one of our own affects Bottom: Wg Cdr Nauman Akram flew the martyrdom would always be
fearless late fighter pilot, who touched COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa during
all of us, said OC Flying, Gp Capt
the Army Chief’s visit to Mushaf Air Base. remembered”.
the lives of many. Muhammad Jahanzeb Khan. Proud Sqn Cdr stands alongside two
services Chiefs’ and other senior officers
(Photo: Snr Tech Qaiser)

57 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 58

FEATURE ALAN WARNES

Right: Air Chief

Marshal Mujahid Anwar
Khan, Chief of Air Staff,
Pakistan Air Force,
inspects the cockpit
of a JF-17 Thunder
B-Model during the roll-
out ceremony held at
JF-17 PAC Kamra.
(Photo: AWO Iftikhar)

Left: A JF-17 Thunder

B-Model aircraft

J ins the Club

stands gleaming at
the tarmac, the green
of the Pakistani flag
standing out on its tail.
(Photo: Alan Warnes)

Pakistan Air Force established that it knows no bounds when it rolled out a better and mightier
version of the JF-17 Thunder (B-Model) with dual seats. The aircraft, already an aviation hot-topic
owing to its battle-proven agility, has now become more commercially viable for Air Forces
around the world. Built in record time in collaboration with China, the JF-17
Thunder B model is a new milestone for the PAF.

59 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 60

F
or years the PAF had always
maintained that it had
no need for a dual-seat
Thunder. Whenever I spoke
to key players in the JF-17
programme, about such a variant I was
always told there was no need. “We
never had a two-seat A-5 and never
needed dual seat F-6s, F-7s or F-7PGs
until later. With a good simulator
system in place it isn’t a priority.”

Then things changed. Unlike the art of tactical fighter flying. Above: A
Peshawar, although it is likely
above types, the Pakistan Air Force Instead they needed to JF-17 Thunder
that one will move to MM Alam B-model aircraft
was responsible for designing the spend a couple of years
when the base stands up the comes in for a
JF-17 from the outset, and with China gaining experience before landing after its
JF-17 OCU there. They have
National Aero-Technology Import & they could move on to
maiden flight at
helped massively with the Chengdu, China,
Export Corporation (CATIC) wanted next stage.
training of new JF-17 pilots, but bearing both
to export it. Most air forces require a the Chinese and
according to the Pakistan Air
mission simulator system as well as The first flight of a dual-
Pakistani flags
Force Chief of the Air Staff, Air as a symbol
a dual seater before pilots fly a single- seat JF-17B, took place at
Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar of mutual
seater version. The Egyptian Air Force Chengdu on April 27, 2017 collaboration.
Khan, the JF-17B will streamline
Commander told me so much at Dubai which revealed several
(Photo: PAF
the JF-17 training process even Archive)
Airshow in 2013, and others have modifications to the
further. “Current JF-17 pilots
expressed the same sentiment. aircraft’s airframe not seen
are being posted to Lockheed Above: Two JF-17 accommodate the new feel for it, rather than fly a Kamra was building eight
Martin F-16, Chengdu F-7PG or in the single-seater. There Thunder Dual Seat
The synthetic training simulators, KLJ-7A AESA radar when simulator. CATIC is also JF-17Bs that rolled out
ROSE Dassault Mirage IIIEAs is a dorsal spine, to house aircraft stand nose
supplied by Spanish technology giant to nose, a picture of the time comes. Three helping with the test and in a ceremony held in the
before converting to JF-17. more fuel, to compensate
Indra have been operational with the
finesse, grandeur and aircraft were initially development programme, morning of 27th December,
But soon they will start going for the space taken by the might. (Photo: AWO
PAF for over five years now. Indra has
Bottom: A built at Chengdu Aircraft including integration of 2019. Chief of Air Staff of
straight to a JF-17 OCU, after additional Martin Baker Mk JF-17 Thunder-B Iftikhar)
played a key role in the development Corporation (CAC), two for weapons. Pakistan Air Force, Air Chief
completing their advanced jet 16 seat. While the swept model aircraft
of the Eurofighter simulation and undergoing the PAF and one for CATIC. The dual-seater will also Marshal Mujahid Anwar
training. It will ensure pilots tail houses a new three- rigorous trials and
was an ideal fit for the JF-17 full While the PLAAF has not have the same operational Khan was the chief guest
transitioning to the Sino-Pak jet, axis fly-by-wire flight tests before it is
mission simulator. Today, there are rolled out to the Bottom Right: Air Chief ordered the JF-17, several capabilities as the single- at the historic occasion.
are a lot younger than they are control system and the Marshal Mujahid Anwar
three mission systems in operation PAF. (Photo: Alan countries have shown a seat JF-17A. By early 2019, Ambassador of People’s
now.” Pilots previously could not nose has been enlarged to Warnes) Khan, H.E Chinese
at Minhas, Masroor and Ambassador to Pakistan
key interest in a dual seat one JF-17B had been Republic of China, Yao Jing.
move to the JF-17 from the No and single seater version. It delivered to the PAF, joined Executive Vice President,
Yao Jing among other
1 Fighter Conversion Unit, where dignitaries representing means potential customers later in the year by a second Aviation Industries of China
they learnt the Pakistan and China
will have the chance to then another two. While (AVIC), Hao Zhaoping,
pose for a photo-op in
front of a JF-17 Thunder fly the aircraft and have a all this was going on, PAC were also in attendance
B-Model aircraft at
the roll-out ceremony
(Photo: AWO Iftikhar)

PAC Kamra
Produced all
08 JF-17 Dual
Seat aircraft in
a Short span
of 05 months

61 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 62

as guests of honour. The most
commendable aspect was that all
aircraft were assembled inside five
months! Later in the day, the Air
Chief also inaugurated JF-17 Dual-
Seat Integration facility at Avionics
Production Factory, Kamra. The
facility will enable PAF to integrate
avionics and weapon systems of
choice with JF-17 aircraft, ultimately
providing much needed self-reliance
and operational flexibility.

PAC Kamra builds a little bit less of of 2020, most of them were going While it is very important to have
the dual-seater than the single-seater through functional flight checks dual seater JF-17s to help with
because the new improvements and by the test pilots at AMF’s flight the export drive and training, the
the cockpit section are designed in test shed. The CAS said, “Serial PAF will undoubtedly turn the dual
China. During the first few months production of dual-seat variant is seater into a tactical aircraft too.
a landmark development for JF-17 There are 26 JF-17Bs on order, the
wizardry helping to shape Above:
program and a true manifestation former PAC Chairman, Air Marshal A JF-17 Dual Seat
the Thunder, the Sino-Pak
of everlasting friendship between Ahmer Shahzad, told the author in (B-Model) lands at
Serial production of fighter is heading into the runway after a
both the friendly countries. JF-17 April 2019 “We will assemble eight
dual-seat variant is a tactical capabilities that successful test flight
Thunder is the backbone of PAF, dual-seaters this year, followed by at Chengdu, China.
landmark development pioneers of the jet could
and it has proven itself a force to 14 in 2020 and the remaining four (Photo: PAF Archive)
for JF-17 program and only have dreamt of.
reckon with during the Operation in 2021.” Right: The Air Chief
Undoubtedly, the two-seater
a true manifestation of Swift Retort in February 2019”. stands in front of
will one day fly with a laser
everlasting friendship The PAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal
designator pod too. It will
the lined up B-model
JF17 Thunders,
between both the friendly Mujahid Anwar Khan told the
be an attractive proposition along-with the-then
countries. JF-17 Thunder author in January 2020: “The Chairman PAC Kamra,
for many third world or Air Marshal Ahmer
Above: PAF Engineers and Technicians JF-17B will fill the LIFT (Lead In
is the backbone of PAF, middle-east nations, and Shehzad Leghari,
toil over a JF-17 Thunder Dual Seat Fighter Training) role in PAF but
and it has proven itself aircraft at the assembly line (Photo: Alan
finally start to pick up some before the latter went
the JF-17 will fulfil both operational on to become Vice
a force to reckon with Warnes) sizeable export orders. The Chief of the Pakistan
and training requirements, its
during the Operation export market is likely to play Air Force.(Photo:
performance and capability with AWO Iftikhar)
a bigger part in the JF-17’s
Swift Retort in February Bottom: The Pakistani flag flutters the AESA radar means it can cover
behind a freshly rolled out JF-17 Thunder success but to get there, it
2019: Air Chief B-Model aircraft.
both. We are completely focussed
will need the continued drive
(Photo: AWO Iftikhar) and taking a professional approach
and vision of both Pakistan Bottom: All lined up - Eight JF-17 Thunders (dual seat)
with the new jets,” He continued:
and China. stand tall on the tarmac in a picturesque symmetry, ready
“All the front line squadrons will to serve. (Photo: AWO Iftikhar)
also have at least one to help
with the operational training.”
With the PAF know-how
and the Chinese
technological

63 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 64

‘HINDUTVA’
GHANWA IJAZ & DR. USMAN CHOHAN ANALYSIS
to the fore with vicious force. Citizenship Act of 1955 and Left Page: citizenship exercise
It is evident both to external the Citizen Rule of 2004 by Demonstrators (beginning with the state
observes and internal pundits providing a path to Indian burn copies of of Assam). The NRC and
that India is in the midst of a citizenship for Hindu, Sikh, the Citizenship CAA are both elements of
transition in its narrative from Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Amendment Bill, a the ruling Bharatiya Janata
supposedly secular to a full- Christian religious minorities bill that seeks to Party’s larger fascist designs

 COLOURS!
fledged ultra-nationalist state. fleeing persecution from give citizenship to for Indian society. For the
The transition being observed Pakistan, Bangladesh, and religious minorities NRC, the process to update
in India is not without staunch Afghanistan and having persecuted in the register began following

ITS TRUE
resistance, not least from entered India on or before neighbouring a Supreme Court order in
citizen groups and from 31 December 2014.This bill, Muslim countries, 2013, with the state’s nearly
minority blocs. Their resistance now Act, had been one of the during a protest in 33 million people having to
and incessant protests hark poll promises of the National New Delhi, India, prove that they were Indian
to a set of slogans including Democratic Alliance (NDA) December 10, 2019. nationals before March 24,
‘Saving the Constitution.’ India government. The act in its Photo by REUTERS 1971. The updated final NRC
has seen many high and low simplest description provides was released on August 31,
points in its post-independence citizenship to the victims of Bottom: Protesters 2019, and more than 1.9
history, but the ongoing turmoil religious persecution of the at the Jama Masjid, million applicants failed to
India’s New Citizenship Amendment Law and its Impact on the Muslims of India represents a particularly low aforementioned religious a mosque in New make it to the list.
ebb, gravely damaging India’s communities except for Delhi, on Friday in The link between the CAA
global standing as a “functional Muslims from Pakistan, a demonstration and NRC is evident in that
democracy,”“rising economic Afghanistan and Bangladesh. against India’s new they together form an
dynamo” and a “country for all The Act also grants fast track citizenship law. exercise whereby every
faiths.” This article discusses Indian citizenship in six years, Credit...Money Indian citizen has their
the reason for these protests, as opposed to the twelve Sharma/Agence citizenship held suspect,
the underlying fears raised by years of residence that had France-Presse — guilty until proven innocent,
the Citizenship Amendment Act, been the standard eligibility Getty Images which forces them to
and the larger tide of socio- requirement for naturalization. actively prove his/her
political change in India as an The CAA is not an isolated citizenship. Now if Hindus,
ultranationalist Hindu polity act; it is connected with the Christians, Sikhs, Parsis
which has left its talk National Register of Citizens or Jains are not able to
of secularism and (NRC), which is a Supreme prove citizenship, for want
pluralism as nothing Court-monitored bureaucratic of documents, they will
but a mere husk. be granted citizenship
automatically as per the law
narrative that was built by thought remarkable
The repulsive face passed by the parliament.
the Indian establishment that the country of CAA and NRC: But if a Muslim is not able
The Citizen Amendment to prove, he or she will
after 1947 depended on remained a self-
Act (hereinafter CAA) be declared an infiltrator.
a supposedly “secular” styled democracy
has amended the Such Muslims will lose
character, which trumpeted except for a brief
their voting rights and
slogans of supposed period between
will not be eligible for
“tolerance” and “harmony.” 1975 and 1977.
employment, declared as
The so-called “largest But the specter of
a second-class citizen.
democracy” in the ultra-nationalism
world was supposed and fascism has
to set an example always loomed
for developing large over the
countries, and at Indian polity, and it
the outset, it was has recently come

RSS ON THE LOOSE

65 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e
This law threatens to make Muslims present the path to a Hindu Rastra. The fears that the All-India Muslims League
stateless in their own country. In the first steps in that path seemed benign, expressed pre-1947 about the place of
meantime, concentration camps a “soft Hindutva” during the periods the Mussalman in post-colonial India Despite the
(“detention centres”) are being of 1998-2004 and then 2014-2018. have come largely true. With visionary constitutional
constructed all over the country Gradually creating a Hindu vote bank and perspective and tireless zeal, the leader guarantees, the Hindu
to corral such people who will be a conducive environment for its survival, of the Muslim League, Mohammad Ali
declared non-citizens through the they proceeded with tougher actions of Jinnah, struggled through a democratic
extremists continue
process. “Hard Hindutva.” process to found a separate homeland to target minorities,
where the Muslims would not be especially Muslims
How CAA violates the The Gau-Raksha (Cow protection) subjugated to the nightmares that would and lower-caste
constitution of India: movement, love jihad propaganda, ‘ghar- unfold in India, as indeed they are now in Hindus (Dalits).
The CAA ring-fences Muslim identity wapsi’ scheme and the entire discourse the era of Hard Hindutva. Meanwhile, the
by declaring India a welcome refuge of Shuddhi movement all exemplify farce of secularism in India has begun to
to all other religious communities this. It should be noted, however, that tear at the seams.
except for Muslims. It seeks to wanting to reconvert the Muslims
legally establish Muslims as and Christians of Hindu origin back to Three underestimated factors
stateless persons in India by Hinduism is neologism because there is How far can the wrath of the irredentist
providing preferential treatment no theological concept of reconversion in Hindu nationalists go? Modi and his
Left Page: An impossible choice.
to other groups. According to Hinduism. cabal have successfully generated the
Photographer: Manjunath Kiran/
the 42nd amendment in the Indian false fear of Muslim domination over the
to move towards “Hard Hindutva”. This new piece of the new legislation, AFP
constitution, India is a secular state Contribution of Indian Muslims Hindu populace in a manner that might
and every other religion has equal Subsequently, they tampered Muslim by all means, is against the spirit of There is no need to look back at the be compared with McCarthyism and
personal law, the controversial three the Indian Constitution. It stands Bottom: Protesters burn an effigy
status. Despite the constitutional immense civilizational contribution of its paranoia. Yet there are three factors
talaq act, abrogation of Article 370 as unconstitutional as well as of Indian Home Minister Amit
guarantees, the Hindu extremists the Muslims of Hindustan over the eight which might lead to Modi’s failure,
and 35 (A), and then the Supreme discriminatory as it singles out Shah during a protest demanding
continue to target minorities, past centuries. Even in the post-1947 and the survival of the Indian republic,
Court’s verdict on Babri Masjid (Ram Muslims in a supposedly (and his resignation in New Delhi,
especially Muslims and lower-caste period, the Muslim minority of India has, pertaining to the social, economic, and
Mandir). All these actions, when constitutionally-mandated) secular India, on March GETTY IMAGES/
Hindus (Dalits). According to local despite immense discrimination and political. The social element is that
added with the CAA(2019) is a part nation of 1.3 billion people, where AFP
opponents of the Act, the CAA has hostility, sought to find a place in society massive protests have broken out across
marred the credibility of the very “idea of a deeper divisive political strategy Muslims form nearly 15 percent and make due contributions to society. India in retaliation against the hostilities
of India”. to polarise India. The BJP has taken of the population. BJP has tried to Difficult as it may be for the hard- of the BJP. The Jamia and Shaheen
six communities on board except justify the move using various racist line Hindutva to accept, the Muslims Bagh protests depict a site of popular
The opposition parties and critics for Muslims, which means that the and xenophobic rationales. all of of modern India have played a large
say the CAA violates India’s secular Muslims are actively singled out. One which hold zero merit when held up role in science, politics, bureaucracy,
constitution by making religion a must take into consideration that the to logic. film, music, entrepreneurship, theatre,
marker of citizenship, and have code of any divisive policy is to single business, academics, and sports.
challenged the law in the Supreme out and hunt at ease. In the Act, all BJP from Soft to Hard Hindutva However, the hardliners in India, and
Court. The argument is that the act major divisive aspects, be it religion, The in-depth analysis of CAA would increasingly a larger polity that voted
violates Article 14 (Equality before linguistic or regional are present in be incomplete without following the BJP into power, considers these
law) and Article 21 (Right to life and ample quantity. the alternative discourse of Hindu Muslims to be a hangover legacy of
liberty)of the Indian constitution. Nationalism, which is endorsed 1947 that failed to find its proper place:
Article 14 permits the reasonable Modi has ultimately played the by the RSS (parent organization somewhere else. Oftentimes, the
and non-arbitrary classification politics of historical revenge on of BJP), in denouncing inclusivity suspect loyalty of Indian Muslims forced
of persons, however, the CAA Muslims, which feeds off a fear and secularism as ‘Minority them into a position that they had to
discriminates against Muslims of Muslim domination over the Appeasement’ and pseudo- bend over backwards to demonstrate
by extending citizenship only to Hindu populace. The Saffronisation secularism that robbed Hindus of their allegiance in cartoonish ways, most
the non-Muslims of three foreign of public places and educational their rightful place in Hindu India and notably by denouncing Pakistan with
countries, and it extends the right to curriculum are also part of that left it ‘soft’. The mindset of a Hindu which they might otherwise have no
live with dignity to a class of refugees movement to eliminate the presence nationalist agenda dwells on the need quarrel – the mere pressure to conform
while excluding its application to of the unwanted minorities. to restructure the existing Indian in a hostile environment would put them
others including Muslim immigrants patterns for the good of Hindus only, at odds with their brethren on the other
(discrimination based on religion) to create a socially hierarchical state, side of the border simply to survive. That
which violates Article 21 of the Indian The updated final NRC was where Hindus must dominate and earlier seemingly comical kowtowing
constitution. ‘others’ shall be subordinate. Hindu to their Hindu overseers shall, it now
released on August 31, 2019, ethos shall be given primacy and the seems, serve them nought.
BJP’s divisive strategy and and more than 1.9 million ‘other’ ethos and history shall stand A vicious slogan has been making
revenge on the Muslims: applicants failed to make it at the secondary position. The Sangh the rounds on social media and in the
The 2019 BJP electoral victory to the list. Parivaar has, with the assistance of streets of India: Musalman ke do hi Stan,
compelled Modi and the company the political wing of BJP, laboured to Qabaristan ya Pakistan. In effect, the

67 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 68

 so large as to prove irreparable. ultra-nationalist fantasy, one which Bottom: Activists
Conflicts in democratic societies are the forefathers of Pakistan warned of Students’
resolved in the parliament; the BJP against in prescience. The degree to Federation of India
is not for conflict resolution but the which the Indian Muslims are further (SFI) burn the
imposition of its fanatical agenda. subjugated and forced to kowtow, effigies of India’s
The core philosophy of BJP and and yet face hardship and exclusion, Prime Minister and
RSS is knitted on the pathological is yet to be seen. Chief Minister of
hatred for Muslims but there is one Assam in Guwahati
thing that needs to be taken under on January 8, 2019
consideration by Modi and his clan, after India’s lower
that the memory of oppressed is one The manipulative strategies house passed
thing that cannot be taken away and of BJP may add a few more legislation that will
with such memories, revolt is always years to its political power, grant citizenship to
an inch below the surface. Ultimately, members of certain
but the potential of division
the vision of the Two Nation Theory, religious minorities
which created a separate homeland and chaos it could create but not Muslims.
for the Muslims, stands as a living within the society will have Photo by Getty
theory, liberating those who opted devastating longer-term Images.
for Pakistan, at great personal and effects.
collective sacrifice, from the clutches
of subjugation and humiliation that
are tearing the Muslims of India
asunder. The CAA and NRC are
simply instruments of a larger Hindu

resistance, and several millions with a flight of foreign capital, workers in India cannot find Above: People
of Indians have hit the streets slumping local demand, credit any employment. With such a mourn next to the
demanding the withdrawal crises and monetary crunch, dismal economic performance, body of Muddasir
of CAA, chanting the slogans low consumer confidence, the BJP might well be sending Khan, who was
of ‘Save the Constitution’ and even runs on the banks. India’s youth to the Qabaristan, wounded on
and ‘People unity, long live’. Perhaps most frightening and for all its problems, Tuesday in a clash
As with the Indian brutality of all, unofficial estimates leaving the youth jealous of between people
in the disputed territory of of the joblessness crisis the structural reforms being demonstrating
Kashmir, the state’s response in India suggest that more undertaken in a more upbeat for and against a
has been iron-fisted, but than one-third of all young Pakistan. new citizenship
unlike in Kashmir, the problem law, after he
hasn’t been militarized (yet). Conclusion succumbed to his
On political grounds, the On one hand,due to this bizarre injuries, in a riot
BJP is losing state elections, The suspect loyalty and outrageous legal act, the affected area in
signaling that many people are of Indian Muslims sense of hopelessness and New Delhi, India,
turning to the ballot to stop forced them into dispossession among India’s February 27, 2020.
the unfolding of the Hindu a position that Muslims is growing. On the Photo by REUTERS
Rashtra. As an example, in other, the CAA and NRC pose
Delhi the the Aam Aadmi Party
they had to bend a serious threat to India’s
(hereinafter AAP) has won over backwards peace and social stability.
elections in the Capital (Delhi) to demonstrate The manipulative strategies
against BJP. AAP’s Arvind their allegiance in of BJP may add a few more
Kejriwal had worked on service years to the BJP’s political
cartoonish ways,
delivery including Mohalla power, but the potential of
Clinics and School Reforms most notably by division and chaos it could
since 2018 but BJP had relied denouncing Pakistan create within the society will
largely on hollow Anti-Pakistan with which they might have devastating longer-term
and Anti-Congress rhetoric. otherwise have no effects. There is even talk of
On the economic front, India’s a second partition in India,
quarrel
economy is now in shambles, as the communal rifts grow

69 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 70

 ANEEQA SAFDAR & DR. USMAN CHOHAN ANALYSIS

FUTURE OF PAKISTAN: national hydroelectric endowment

has been a moot point for the past 50
years.

ECONOMY, OPPORTUNITIES AND Pakistan ranks 152 out of 189

countries in the Human Development
Index (HDI) ranking, and its HDI

CHALLENGES
score is lower even than the South
Asian average. After multiple
experiments undertaken in the
ambit of laissez-faire and capitalism,
economic experts have finally come
to a consensus that growth without
led to a recurring negative balance National savings and investment, development is not sustainable. As
of payments and has brought the which are key macroeconomic discussed earlier, public spending
country to the danger of default. It variables that influence the stability in Pakistan gravitates towards
was under such circumstances that and growth of an economy, are short-term measures and callously
the current government resorted also lagging in Pakistan. Although ignores the ingredients of long-term
to harsh economic stabilization high inflation rates make it difficult success. Human capital formation,
measures as evident from the federal for people to save due to reduced as indicated by the educational
budget. Although the government has purchasing power, Pakistan’s savings spending nationally, remains one
managed to bring down the current and investment statistics are still of the lowest in the world with
account deficit, it mainly happened much lower as compared to other approximately 2% of GDP. While
due to strict import policy instead of Asian economies like China and in the future, the race is towards a
growth in exports. India. Hence in Pakistan, enough knowledge economy, in Pakistan one
money is not available domestically does not see any comprehensive
With the rapidly growing population to drive the investments that would strategy and scarcely the political will
and ever-increasing expenditure funnel effective growth. to generate one.
demands, successive governments
have struggled to finance the Another formidable challenge that Similarly, another daunting issue
country’s expenses mainly because the Pakistani economy has faced that has negatively impacted the
of low revenue generation. The tax- is the suboptimal public spending economic development is the
revenue generating bodies struggles that has been carried out by the size of the public sector. Although

P
with formulating a substantive tax successive governments. The there exists a negative correlation
policy that would appropriately structure of spending is mismanaged between government size and its
Pakistan, a country that coherent economic policies and poor gap and the saving-investment gap.
widen the tax net and hence draw and flawed in the sense that lower efficiency, Pakistan maintains a large
is home to fertile lands as governance. These high deficits pose monumental
upon an indigenous capacity to fund yield, but politically visible projects bureaucracy that is in many ways a
well as mighty mountain challenges to every incumbent
national expenditure requirements. are given priority over the ones that vestige of its colonial past and not
ranges, blessed with The instability of growth patterns government which continues to
The difference, nonetheless, had would generate maximal value for suitable for grappling with either
abundant natural resources and can primarily be linked to myriad exacerbate with each passing tenure.
almost always been financed by the the public. Let us take the example macroeconomic trends or local-
human capital, not to mention its structural constraints that have Hence when the PTI government
governments through sources such of water infrastructure as a case of level issues. This bulky government
central geostrategic importance, become associated with the complained of inheriting historic high
as external borrowing or printing of neglect. Despite acute water and puts the pressure of salary bills and
nevertheless continues to struggle country’s economy over the course debts and deficits, it was justified in
money which ultimately entangled power shortages, the pensions on the revenue and further
with a cash-starved economy. The of history and are becoming worse its claims.
the country in the debt conundrum usage of our restricts fiscal space for development
country generally underperforms over time. A brief overview of these
and the related challenges of high projects in the country. Although this
in almost all economic indicators challenges is presented below. Pakistan’s economy can be
inflation and decreased investment. is not to suggest that the government
and habitually finds itself in characterized as import- and
macroeconomic crises. With a The fundamental problem associated needs to be irrationally shrunk, there
consumption-oriented. Because
nominal GDP per capita ranking with the country’s economy is is much room for the public sector to
of the weak industrial base of the
of 157 in the world, the economic its weak financial position/ fiscal be reformed along the lines of public
country and low-value addition in
challenges encountered by the management. The economy of value creation.
its products, the share of exports
country are all too obvious. Despite Pakistan has historically been run in the balance of payments has
the country’s immense economic on three major deficits or gaps; the Another significant governance
over time dwindled, while that of
potential, it continues to struggle, and current account deficit or the trade challenge that has negatively
imports has mounted. This increased
one is inclined to link it to a lack of gap, the budget deficit or the fiscal impacted the economy is the
reliance on foreign resources has
flawed justice system. Although

71 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 72

the nonexistence of quality control political interests run rampant, investment that has flown in since If the current government succeeds and development worldwide. The
regulations and consumer protection the country is recurrently made the second half of 2019 is “hot in implementing these policies example of Japan two generations
remained key hindrances to welfare a subject of economic warfare. Pakistan’s geostrategic money” that can whimsically leave at effectively, they would ultimately ago and Bangladesh today
of consumers in the country, the Such international bodies play position has proven to be a moment’s notice. end the circle of uncertainty that demonstrate this. On the contrary,
lack of effective business dispute an important role in international both a curse and a blessing ever so often returns to haunt the Pakistani women’s entrepreneurship
resolution mechanism poses a great finance, wielding particular for it. Its geostrategic and A recent yet most consequential economy and curtails its long-term rates are counted among the lowest
challenge to the safety and stability influence on foreign investors’ (mis) challenge that has dawned upon development orientation. in the world and their labor market
political alignments, on one
of small businesses. Business perceptions about countries. In the Pakistan more generally and its participation is also disconcertingly
investment in Pakistan is significantly case of FATF, the grey-listing costs hand, made it the recipient economy in particular is the specter In terms of opportunities, the low. An IMF study estimated that
reduced because of the lengthy Pakistan economy an estimated $10 of multilateral grants, on the of global climate change. Pakistan examples abound, but one of keen Pakistan’s GDP would increase
resolution mechanism as cases are billion annually. other, also it made it an easy has been placed on the fifth spot in interest is tourism. Pakistan, blessed by 30% if women’s labor force
dragged on for years. Ultimately, the target of the hybrid warfare the list of countries most vulnerable with scenic landscapes, rich culture participation rates become equivalent
money gets parked in non-productive The international bodies are, of the great powers. to climate change. Pakistan is most and history, and hospitable people to male participation rates. The
sectors like real estate with no output however, sometimes justified in vulnerable to the effects of climate has every potential to become a women in Pakistan are hence another
to the economy. The government their apprehensions regarding change because of its overreliance tourist attraction. Unfortunately, due opportunity for the country.
seriously needs to reconsider its Pakistan’s economy. For example, There was a time when Pakistan on the climate-sensitive sector of to poor law and order situation in the
approach towards the commercial the FATF’s concerns about Pakistan’s was considered amongst the agriculture. Extreme weather events country, the tourism industry could CPEC, the $62 billion investment
courts if it wants to bring the large informal economic base is most attractive countries for the like droughts and floods along with not flourish in the past. However, project is not just a strategic
stagnated money in circulation. corroborated by the fact that (at the investment, an emerging market changing crop patterns are damaging now as the security situation has game-changer but an economic
very least) 35% of country’s GDP par excellence. However, the sad the agriculture sector extensively. In changed, the industry can pay its fate-changer for Pakistan. As the
Looking at the wider horizon, wallows in informality. The Hawala unfolding of endogenous and the last decade alone, the already fair share in boosting the economy. first phase of the project has been
Pakistan’s geostrategic position or Hundi system are indicative in this exogenous events, including a fragile economy of Pakistan suffered To bank upon tourism potential, concluded with the successful
has proven to be both a curse and a regard, and they have thrived in the spell of terrorism and poor law and economic losses worth $3.8 billion substantive tourism policy needs completion of major infrastructure
blessing for it. Its geostrategic and country since very long because of order situation, had shattered the due to climate change. to be formulated that improves and energy projects, which have
political alignments, on one hand, both negligence of the vested-interest country’s image. Although Pakistan tourism infrastructure, creates an effectively mitigated the country’s
made it the recipient of multilateral authorities and the direct resistance has been extremely successful in Yet there is a stronger recognition enabling environment for the tourists power and infrastructure woes,
grants, on the other, also it made it of a greedy and unruly private sector. vanquishing the obscurantist forces today of the problems that as well as advertise the tourism CPEC’s Phase 2 brings about much
an easy target of the hybrid warfare This unregulated system on one hand of extremism/ terrorism, the scars confront the nation. The incumbent opportunities of the country. higher hopes with it. The country
of the great powers. By use of may be easing money laundering and have yet to fully heal. That preceding government has declared meaningful which is currently struggling with low
international financial institutions terrorist financing, but on the other political instability still looms over economic reforms to be its top As but another example, whereas investment and high unemployment,
such as the World Bank and IMF, not it forestalls the much-needed formal the investment climate, particularly agenda and is currently making many industrialized and developed CPEC Phase 2 would turn out to
to mention thuggish bodies such as economic growth. with regards to long-term investment. several “hardcore” adjustments and world countries are suffering from be an economic lifesaver, so long
the FATF where nefarious foreign For instance, most of the foreign undertaking stabilization measures. an aging population, Pakistan has as private sector involvement
The efforts towards austerity, fiscal the largest youth population in its is proactive and value-creating
adjustment, monitory tightening, history with 64% of its population opportunities are keenly seized.
and documentation of economy is below the age of 30. This youth
are all difficult pills to swallow. Yet bulge in Pakistan, although a real- As such, the verdict on Pakistan’s
these are the sorts of remedial time challenge because of the high future economic outlook should
measures that might just correct rate of illiteracy and unemployment, remain bright keeping in view the
the course given how wayward our can be a blessing in disguise. It can country’s potential to still put itself
development trajectory was become. serve as a demographic dividend back on the track of sustainability
In the past, such steps were avoided if trained and empowered in due and growth, with the caveat that
in favor of short-term interventions. course of time. Young people are fast reforms and bitter pills must be
learners and hence taken now despite the temptations
with appropriate to kick the can down the road and
skill-based training, seek political expediency. It is also
they can be made an a collective responsibility of ours
asset for the future to galvanize the public towards
not just for Pakistan meaningful economic lives and
but for the world too. financial inclusion, so as to do justice
to the aspirations of the large youth
Women’s cohort. The greatest opportunity for
engagement in Pakistan, then, lies in addressing
economic activity the aforementioned challenges
has proven to systematically, collectively, and in a
stimulate growth timely fashion.

73 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 74

 DR TAHIR NAEEM ANALYSIS
by genomic sequencing. The majority
of the initial cluster of 45 cases from
the Wuhan area has been associated
with visitation of a seafood/live exotic
animal market or by close contact
with an ill family member. The virus
has now been isolated from infected
patients. Full genomic sequences
have been published, which suggest
that COVID 19 has approximately 70%
amino acid homology to SARS-CoV
and 96% to a known bat CoV.

China was the worst affected

country in the beginning but with
governmental resolve and with the decision-making phase and leaving it the patient is also not wearing a mask
cooperation of the people, it has to the people to practice self-restraints while talking to you or coughing or
overcome the epidemic in record time rather than imposing restrictions. sneezing. There are chances that
and is now ready to extend its help to Now that we have to tackle the the virus will find its way into your
those who need it. Italy was slow to problem, following are the suggestions respiratory system (throat, larynx,
respond and is now paying the price. for the way forward. I thank Dr Naveed trachea and lower respiratory tract).
The number of cases and deaths have Rashid Consultant Infectious Diseases You can easily prevent the entry of
already surpassed the Chinese figures at Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute virus into your respiratory system by
and is likely to rise further. Almost Lahore for devising these guidelines washing your hands with soap and
every country has reported cases which suit to our social and cultural water for 20 seconds, sanitizing your
Dr Tahir Naeem, Associate Professor infectious disease specialists have containment, and the last known case
and the response is swifter in many norms and also are cost effective. hands with a skin sanitizer and/or by
of Microbiology, presently working in been warning the world about such a occurred in mid-2004. In retrospect,
developed countries to close down all More importantly, he has allowed cleaning the surfaces with a detergent
widespread contagion for years. The the emergence of SARS was
Department of Pathology Shalamar the activities before it is too late. anyone who wishes to use them, to do solution. Removing the virus from
only question is - are we prepared consistent with what is known about
Medical and Dental College Lahore, enough? CoVs as a group. Mortality of SARS-
so without any restrictions. The theme your hands or from surfaces is very
gives an expert opinion regarding the Pakistan was able to avoid the of the guidelines says “How to fight easy because the virus is rendered
CoV was estimated to be around 10%.
introduction of the virus from China COVID 19. Help your doctor from your ineffective by the use of soap and
menace COVID-19 that has gripped What is Corona virus exactly? More recently, a related but different
because firstly China did not allow home”. other detergents as it has a covering
the entire humanity with fear. The Coronaviruses (CoVs) are a CoV producing severe respiratory

W
residents of epidemic struck area It is important to understand the that is dissolved by lipid solvents and
large group of viruses infecting disease had emerged.
ith a bulging to move out and secondly our routes of spread of this virus. The inactivated.
mammals and birds and producing It was named as the Middle East
population of over government did not bow to the first route is when after touching By staying at home and keeping these
a wide variety of diseases. The CoV Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus
seven billion and pressure of evacuating the Pakistani your hands to someone else’s hands simple instructions in mind, you can
nucleic acid is the largest known viral (MERS-CoV). The virus was quickly
flights that cross nationals out of the affected territory. or after touching a surface that is help yourself and your country.
RNA, approximately 30 kb in length, identified as a new CoV most closely
continents within But on the western border, entry frequently touched by someone else’s
of positive sense, single stranded, related to bat CoVs. Human-to-human
a matter of mere of the pilgrims from Iran could hands, you touch your nose, eyes or Unless it is an emergency or the
polyadenylated, and infectious. All transmission was documented but
hours- the world has become a global not be stopped for long. Adding to mouth. The other possibility of getting call of duty (essential services), one
human coronaviruses (HCoVs) are appeared to be inefficient except in
village but since the last month this the challenge was the inadequate the virus is when you are not wearing should attempt to stay home. This is
primarily respiratory pathogens. In hospital settings. The animal reservoir
village is in a self-imposed curfew. arrangements for keeping those face mask and get close (less than more important for those with chronic
animals, they cause a wide variety of of MERS-CoV is believed to be camels,
Cities that usually never sleep look returning citizens in effective 1 meter/3 feet) to a sick patient and medical problems
diseases through multiple pathogenic although evidence suggests that bats
like scenes out of a post -apocalyptic quarantine for the desired length of
mechanisms, and they have been may be infected with related viruses.
novel. Empty roads, restaurants time. In this way, the individuals in
noted to mutate frequently and infect The mortality in these cases was in
abandoned, hospitals over-loaded. the incubation phase and even those
new species. During the winter of the range of > 30%.
Every human in a mask, avoiding with symptoms were allowed to not
2002–2003, an alarming new disease
contact, hoarding supplies, bloodshot only re-enter but also, to travel to
appeared that was labeled as Severe COVID 19:
eyes constantly set on screens their homes almost unhindered, thus DIFFICULTY
Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). A novel coronavirus, currently BREATHING
announcing more deaths. spreading the virus very effectively
The disease was quickly attributed to designated as COVID 19, was reported
throughout the land. The situation DRY COUGH
a new CoV. This outbreak originated to be the cause of an outbreak of
This is 2020 and life as we know was the worst in Sindh, where the
in People’s Republic of China, with respiratory disease in Wuhan, China
it has changed drastically. Every provincial government has ultimately
evidence that the virus was first in December, 2019. The authorities
cough appears to be suspect and decided to impose lockdown, thus
derived from bats. The SARS epidemic in China reported that the etiologic
every human is at risk; from world restricting movement of the general
was controlled through a massive agent was a novel coronavirus, as
leaders to the common man. But is public to a minimum. Other provinces FEVER
effort at case identification and detected by electron microscopy and TIREDNESS

this unexpected? No. Scientists and and federal government are in the

75 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 76

PAF... In Service of the Nation during COVID-19
(Heart Diseases, High Blood 2. If one feels sick, immediately drawers, refrigerator surfaces
Pressure, Diabetes mellitus, Chronic inform other members of the and their handles, water taps and
Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, family and isolate in a separate stairs railings.
Cancer patients and those who are room. If a separate room is • Stay safe and stay at home as far
Pakistan Air Force has proven its mettle This includes the immunocompromised for any cause). not available, maintain social as possible.
countless times. In the face of adversary formation of a Disaster Remember that it is also risky for the distance (> 1 meter/3 feet). • Keep the more vulnerable
and seemingly unconquerable odds, the Management Centre very young and for the elderly (> 60 Avoid coming close to vulnerable members of your family away
men of PAF have stood firm and emerged at Air HQ Islamabad,
years old) and they should choose to family members (very young, from outdoor exposure.
victorious. Although, the most glorious which is monitoring the
go out only when they must. very old, with chronic ailments, • Maintain social distance from
of its accomplishments have been in situation and conduct
In case one has to go out, following immunocompromised). others to keep distance from
war-time and in the battlefield, PAF has briefings on a daily
also risen to the occasion whenever basis. The centre is general and specific guidelines can 3. Call helpline 1166 or local medical possible virus attack.
the nation has been faced with natural working under the direct help minimize the risk: service for further management • Follow the travel advisory and
calamities and disasters. Be it delivering command of VCAS. any other advice by the relevant
relief goods to remote areas struck by Similar set-ups have • If required, only one person Corvid-19 has already shown its authorities.
earthquakes & floods or transporting also been established should go out. Always spare those impact on economy, as well. Economy • Help yourself and your country by
the injured to hospitals through its air at Regional Command with increased risk. forecast is changing rapidly and the staying at home and not exposing
transport fleet, PAF has done it all. PAF and air base levels. PAF • One should wear a face mask. future is excessively uncertain. In yourself to unwanted risks.
has always remained in the forefront of personnel have been • Maintain the social distance of at the worst-case scenario, we will be • Seek medical help for you and
nation building activities and is always issued with advisories which contain All hospitals and secondary medical
least 1 meter/3 feet. facing an extreme recession lasting your family members if need be.
amongst the first to respond, whenever vital information pertaining to the virus facilities administered by the PAF have
been put on high alert to deal with any • Avoid rush hours at public places more than a year, with only vital public
the nation has called upon for help. and its origin. It also includes instructions such as markets and banks. services and food supply remaining Finally, the only true way we can fight
on observing quarantine, isolation and crisis. Efforts have also been made to
enhance the capacity of the hospitals • Use personal transport (car, motor active. Most of us will depend on COVID-19 is by being kind and logical.
Presently, Pakistan and the entire world social distancing methodologies. These
and field medical units throughout the bike, others) if available. Disinfect savings or work from home. On the Nature will be unforgiving to all of
is facing a threat unlike any it has ever advisories are complimented by a mass
country. the car steering or bike handle optimistic side, we would be able us, if any of us are foolish enough to
seen, the Covid 19. A deadly virus which media awareness campaigns which has
been launched all across PAF bases. before starting the journey. to find the right type of medical not take the prescribed precautions.
has made the world come to a standstill,
bringing economies to their knees in The personnel of Pakistan Air Force • If public transport has to be combination, be it via testing or Similarly, we need to ensure that our
its wake. The death toll is mounting, As for external efforts in serving the have decided to contribute a portion used, it should be with minimum delaying threats, to somewhat reduce actions don’t have a negative effect
with thousands of deaths being nation, PAF is at the forefront of the of their salary in the Corona relief chance of getting close to others the corvid impact and returning to the on others. For example, hoarding has
recorded every single day. Pakistan is relief efforts alongside NDMA and sister fund, an earnest gesture during these (cab service, etc) and sit as far normal routine in a few months. become a major issue. It is extremely
no exception. Ever since the outbreak, services. PAF’s transport aircraft are testing times. It has been announced from the driver as possible. Avoid important for us to comprehend that
the number of cases is growing making constant trips to China to bring that the contribution would be made a shared ride and avoid physical the only way we can fight such a virus
The epidemic will disturb economy
exponentially. Every governmental and in the much needed medical supplies. by all ranks of PAF. The Air Chief set an
contact with driver (hand shake) in several ways. First, it will interrupt is if we can flatten the contagion curve
non-governmental organisation in the As pilot of one of the PAF’s inbound example by donating an entire month’s
and surfaces. Don’t touch your the supply lines, the second effect will - which means that if we can stop
country is fiercely fighting against the aircraft puts it, “We have trained for this. salary. Officers of the rank of Air Cdre
and above will donate their three-day eyes, nose and mouth during be the effects of quarantines, store or delay the spread of the virus. This
outbreak and PAF is also contributing in We stand with our nation.” The last trip traveling or later unless you have closures, travel restrictions and other cannot be done if everybody doesn’t
all possible ways. brought in 14 tons worth of medical salary and Gp Capts’ and under will
donate two-day salary towards fighting washed or sanitized your hands. kinds of lock down. Then finally, it have access to the supplies needed
supplies, masks and ventilators and
the pandemic. Not to be left behind, • In case of larger public transport will have a huge effect on the regular to counter the virus or survive. Such
The Air Chief’s response was prompt other allied equipment.
airmen and civilians working in (bus, coaster, etc), prefer a single income of the masses in terms of job infectious diseases do not differentiate
and several measures to fight the
PAF would also chip in their one- seat. Avoid physical contact loss and business closures. However, between rich, poor, young or old so
pandemic were taken quickly under his
direct supervision. day salary in the Corona Relief with driver (hand shake), other it is safe to assume that experts and social distancing and precaution is
Fund. The message from PAF passengers and surfaces. Don’t world leaders will be fast to innovate the name of the game till a vaccine is
is clear. ‘We stand with you, touch your eyes, nose and mouth and come up with better ways to developed. Till then, stay indoors, wash
whatever that may entail.’ during traveling or later unless you tackle these challenges as they your hands, isolate yourself and be
have washed or sanitized your emerge. considerate of others.
hands.
Things to be done while at home:
Wash your hands with soap and I am sure that with these simple
water or use sanitizer immediately on “To-do” steps, you can make a CoVID-19 AFFECTED
leaving the vehicle. difference: COUNTRIES
When returning home after completing • Perform twice
the tasks at hand, do the following daily cleaning and
after entering. This applies to all family disinfection of the
members, guests and servants: high touch surfaces.
1. No hand shake and/or hugging These surfaces include
without washing hands and main entrance door handle,
(preferably) face with soap and other room handles, chairs
water. arm supports, table tops,

77 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 78

 FALAK SHER KHAN OPINION
amount that could be utilized Left: Turning a page
in history: US troops
instead to pay for the entire prepare for withdrawal
careers of 5000 police officers from Afghan
or the same amount could territories(Photo:
Online)
be used to pay off the tuition
fee for all current students
in British higher education
Bottom Left: Zalmay
for the next decade. On the Khalilzad, special
other hand, to finance war representative by the
expenditure, the US is under US government for
Afghan reconciliation.
overwhelming debt which Khalilzad has been the
it will be returning till 2023, key mediator between
with more than $600 billion in the United States and
the Afghan Taliban.
interest. One would assume (Photo: Online)
that after such a staggering
amount of resources jobless and the economic International corruption practice is among the worst
exhausted, the Allied forces growth has been crippled in the world along with very weak security capabilities
would have something to since 2015. This has led to protect foreign investments. The minerals sector
show for it. Sadly, that is not to major consequences, is one of the promising sectors of Afghanistan. Even
the case. Taliban forces now including a mass exodus of after Pentagon claimed that it could be turned into
dominate and control more the population to neighboring a $1 Trillion industry, Afghanistan was not able to
territorial area than they did countries. The brunt of this grab any potential investors except China. After a
in 2001 when the US siege massive migration has huge investment, even China was unable to procure
began. Recently, they have been carried by Pakistan. satisfactory results owing to lack of security and
escalated their war efforts According to the UNHCR, interest from the government. The Special Inspector
and initiated more vigorous there are approximately 2.6 General for Afghanistan Reconstruction documented
attacks on a daily basis million registered refugees $15.5 billion in waste, fraudulent practices and
against ground troops and in 70 countries around the misuse in reconstruction efforts from 2008 through
military outposts throughout world, with the majority (95 2017. Most of the funds, the IG found, funds were
the war-torn country. per cent) being hosted by wasted on plans that were rife with corruption and
two countries, Pakistan and poorly managed. US investments that were meant to
Despite Western media trying Iran. Currently, Pakistan establish hospitals treated no patients, the educational
to form an elusive narrative,

A
hosts more than 1.4 million institutes that were being funded were ghost schools
Afghanistan’s economy registered Afghans who and military bases for the Afghans were, for the most
After extensive rounds of by US and in return Taliban will free of the operation, the subsequent has not seen any signs of have been forced to flee their part, useless and later closed.
negotiations that started 1000 government officials. The US endeavor was launched the very next progress from 2001. War- homes because of these
in 2018, the Taliban has about 14000 troops on the ground year. “Operation Freedom’s Sentinel” related expenditure has wars. Foreign investors Conferring to the information given by the US Central
envoy and US officials currently in Afghanistan. This force is began in 2015 and continues to this unevenly doubled the size of still hesitate to invest in Command Combined Air Operations Center, US air
met to sign a peace joined by 17000 troops from 39 NATO day. According to US Department of Afghanistan’s economy since Afghanistan due to the high force dropped the highest number of missiles in
agreement in Qatar’s Allies and Allied partners, serving in Defense, a whopping $1521.6 Billion 2007 but these numbers rate of corruption practices a decade, crossing 7500 bombs. UN Assistance
capital, Doha. To summarize, the peace combatant and non-combatant roles in has been incurred in war-related costs don’t translate into real prevalent in the country, Mission in Afghanistan began documenting casualties
agreement has four key constituents. Afghanistan. The treaty has gathered from September, 2011 till Mid of 2018. change. More than half of according to Transparency in 2009, and it quickly came to light that about a
First, the Taliban will guarantee that immense support from the British If this expenditure is dissected, 60 the Afghan population is still 100,000 Afghans have been killed or wounded. In April,
Afghanistan’s land will not be used by Military, which has agreed to withdraw percent of the funding goes to affairs
UN issued a report showing very alarming figures,
any foreign armed forces to initiate 200 troops out of the 1100 that are left like fuel, armored vehicles, training and
showing that Afghan and US forces had killed more
any attack against the US or Allied in the region. other facilities including transportation
civilians in Afghanistan than the country’s armed
forces. Second, all US-led forces shall such as sea and air lifts. To this day,
groups had. Around 717 civilians were killed by Afghan
be withdrawn from the region. Third, The international combat mission OFS teams continues to train, advise
and US forces, compared to the 531 by rebel fighters.
there shall be an immediate ceasefire “Operation Enduring Freedom OEF” and assist Afghan National Defense
By the end of 2019, around 2,400 American soldiers
between the two opposing forces. Last was initiated by the US in Afghanistan and Security Forces (ANDSF) at
and more than 38,000 Afghan civilians have died due
of all, a series of intra-afghan dialogue in 2001 following the tragic 9/11 the corps level, as well as with the
to conflicts. In 2019 only, there were more than 8,200
to ensure a smooth transition of power attacks. The widespread vengeance Ministry of the Interior and Defense.
civilian casualties according to the UN Assistance
shall be initiated. If both parties keep to frenzy allowed the military complex According to a book published in 2013
Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). Estimated cost
their assurances, US-led foreign forces to rapidly gather public support and titled ‘Investment in Blood’ by Frank
of medical and disability care will cross $350 billion
could be retracted from Afghanistan silence all voices advocating a less Ledwidge, conflict in Afghanistan
in amount for veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq
by the year 2021. Other notable brutal approach. The operation waged cost Britain approximately £37 Billion.
wars. Experts also project another trillion dollars in
elements of the agreement include on for 14 years and finally concluded Furthermore, the author calculates that
expenses, over a span of 40 years, for wounded and
the release of 5000 Taliban prisoners in 2014. Despite the glaring failure by 2020, Britain would have spent an
disabled war veterans.

79 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 80

Another concern is the sophisticated
military equipment abandoned by US
and allied forces in Afghanistan. The
opium is produced in
over 50 nations, it is
highly concentrated
in Afghanistan,

US military has lost about 100,000 accounting for
metric tons of military apparatus 82 percent of all
which includes mine resistant vehicles, global illicit opium
military vehicles and several other production. Opium
types of sophisticated equipment. This prices and trade
equipment was abandoned because declined in 2018,
it was too expensive to ship back due to droughts

SUBSCRIPTION
after being used, adding wastage of that hit the other
millions of dollars. A report published agricultural sectors
in a US newspaper cited US military and indebtedness Qatar. Talking to the press, Pompeo
officials who revealed that more than of Afghan farmers increased as a appreciated Islamabad’s efforts for B E N E F I T S
$7 billion worth of military equipment consequence. Income for basic needs facilitating negotiations in Afghanistan
is no longer needed and is being such as food, medical expenses and
shredded and sold locally as scrap debt clearance are the most common
and asked Islamabad to help make
Afghanistan a peaceful and prosperous
CHOOSE FROM
metal. Steps like these shows that usages of opium income. In a report
the US military would rather waste last year, Special IG for Reconstruction
place. It is imperative to keep in mind
that after the US President called off
1 2
its equipment rather than giving it mentioned that in spite of spending talks, the first meeting between Taliban
away to its partners who have been
their close allies. According to US
billions of dollars to control poppy
cultivation, numbers showed that
and Zalmay Khalilzad, U.S peace envoy FREE FREE
for Afghanistan resumed in Islamabad,
officials, donating the gear to Afghan the efforts were apparently a ‘failure’. instead of Kabul or Qatar. Meanwhile,
JF-17 Thunder A PAF
government is difficult because of Afghanistan has seen developments for India, the emerging state of affairs Key Chain Mug
complicated bureaucratic rules and in health and education with help in Afghanistan are not only upsetting
they believe that Afghans could not from US Aid programs, but again, but also mandates that it has to rethink
maintain the gear. However, selling they are inadequate when compared its $3 billion worth of investments
the same gear seemingly violates no to international standards. Mortality in war torn nation. It is becoming
rules and somehow all complicated rate remains one of the highest in the exceedingly clear that India’s proxy
bureaucratic channels are also
bypassed.
world, while life expectancy is among
the poorest. Education system is in
plans are coming to a standstill and it
will have to face grim circumstances in
HOW TO
chaos with girls still receiving very little Afghanistan. It is becoming clearer that SUBSCRIBE
According to UN, prior to US schooling to no schooling at all, while India entered Afghanistan more out of 
occupation, opium production in education for boys is also meager.
Afghanistan was all but eliminated.
antagonism for Pakistan than for the
love of Afghans. Its only underlying
  

Presently, however, opium harvest Pakistan played a significant role interest was in establishing a puppet    
is the major source of revenue for in bringing Taliban and US to the government which could be used 
Afghans and military organizations. table and finalizing the peace deal against Pakistan on diplomatic fronts,

2019’s World Drug Report published between them. US Secretary of State whenever required. However, being 
by United Nations Office on Drugs and Mike Pompeo applauded Pakistan left out of Afghan talks and the peace
Crime (UNODC) states that although for its consistent efforts in Doha, deal, India will now focus on saving its 
geopolitical and financial interests in   
Right Above:
Foreign Minister Afghanistan.      
Shah Mehmood
Qureshi receives
Taliban leadership Achieving peace in Afghanistan
during a round of
peace-process will certainly be a difficult task and
parlays held in
Islamabad in 2019. success is not guaranteed. All peace
(Photo: Online) talks depend on the seriousness of
the two sides which clearly don’t trust
Bottom
each other. Then again what option do
Left: Afghan they have? After more than 19 years
Taliban’s Doha
Spokesperson of war, neither US nor the Taliban have
Suhail Shaheen been able to overcome the other. The
at the flanks of
Taliban leaders current peace deal is only way forward
during the peace but with one intriguing question….Will it
summit.
(Photo: Online) bring long lasting peace in the region?   
   
        
     
81 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE
 
  PAF M agaz in e
 S. KHALIL TRIBUTE
is love for Hussaini’s drawings, sketches and
aeroplanes and paintings grew out of research
passion to draw and chronicle the spirit of PAF
them, inspired in the air. Hussaini has had the
Gp Capt Syed honour of attending events as
Masood Akhtar guest speaker at the National
Hussaini from Museum for Naval Aviation,
an early age. The Florida, Miramar Airbase, NASA
pursuit of his skills Space Center, Boeing Airline
as a painter led him to where he Museum in Seattle, and American
stands today - the premier aviation Airline Museum, Dallas.
artist for Pakistan Air Force. His
impressions interpret the meaning Group Captain Syed Masood
of PAF traditions and customs with Akhtar Hussaini has spent his
impressive understanding. entire life documenting and browns, earthy colours, pretty much
preserving PAF history on canvases everything to give that metal effect,”
The accuracy with which his with his paint and brush. FS Hussaini’s Masood Akhtar Hussaini said as he
paintings depict the most intricate low level inverted aerobatics in painted the light source above the
details of jet planes, flybys and dog Peshawar, 1949, the PAF ‘Falcons’ grey fuselage of aircraft.
fights cover all phases of Pakistan setting world record in 16 F-86 tight
Air Force. Publications of his works formation in 1958, Flt Lt Hameed His latest illustration depicts a missile
include pictures of pilots, airmen and Anwar performing to the delight of launched from a slightly ascending
virtually all PAF planes, parked on the Jordanian King Hussein 1 looking on PAF aircraft into a dark blue sky more
tarmac and engaged in air combat, from the control tower in 1965, to a than 30, 000 feet high. The other
describing on canvas the more adventurous version of Flt Lt half of the impression shows the
actions they saw. Aliuddin napalming and strafing Indian Indian MIG around 16, 000 feet below
army in Thar desert, 1971, the violent that starts to trail black smoke, and
confrontation over narrow valleys Abhinandan’s ejection seat rocketing
in Parachinar, 1986, where Sqn Ldr out of his aircraft. That is how the
Hameed Qadri’s AIM-9L missile turns pilots described it to me, PAF’s
an SU-22 into a fireball, premier aviation artist said, bending
16,000 ft high while Sqn Ldr over the work in his studio where he
Yousaf Chaudhry chases the has been painting since last 40 years.
other intruder during Afghan
War. Having a talent is a great start. That
is all it is - a great start. The rest of
He was found painting the path to excellence is through
history again after Pakistan
Air Force pilots inspired
him to pick up his brush A newspaper ‘The Daily
and paint palette and
Progress’ of Virginia (USA)
depict Wing Commander
Abhinandan eject, after a
paid rich tributes to Hussaini
PAF aircraft shot him and termed him as “The
down on 27th February, oil and canvas chronicler
2019. of Pakistan’s military
victories”. On the 40th
“Metal consists anniversary of the PAF, the
of many different
Government of Pakistan
colours. An artist
has to create that issued ten commemorative
effect by often using postage stamps all bearing
all the colours in the the miniaturized prints
rainbow. It looks grey of Hussaini’s aviation
but is a reflection of paintings.
its environment, blues,

83 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 84

chiselling the talent throughout ones’ life. Masood Akhtar Air Force artist and the author of a fine
Hussaini started painting when he was five years old. In series of books on PAF. The American
those days, it was mandatory for every school to have an Society of Aviation Artists has been
art teacher and drawing used to be a compulsory subject. proud to include Hussaini as a Foreign
When Hussaini joined the PAF College Sargodha, adjacent Associate Artist Fellow and Life Member
to the runway, he was right in the center of aviation activity. for the past 25 years,” Ferris said.
“Every morning afforded a fine view across the landscape Former Air Chief Marshal Jamal A Khan
of jets taking off and landing - arrival of Starfighter 104, saw Hussaini as an artist who painted
aerobatics, I witnessed them all in my five years of a dynamic air force life and events that
student life there,” Hussaini reminisced. It was there that are as enjoyable and inspiring as they
the metamorphosis of his creative process began with were at the time of their occurrence.
the nucleus of an idea to paint aeroplanes, followed by Art historian and author FS Aijazuddin,
numerous painful trial and error sketching and sometimes described his paintings as homage to a
the completed painting. After joining the Air Force in 1963, service and a tribute by a grateful nation
he used to draw and paint for his own pleasure. to Pakistan Air Force.

“It was in the 1980s during my posting in Saudi Arabia as

Flt Lt, when I painted the experience of a Vietnam vet who
flew the Phantom. Before
I knew, I was painting
encounters of American
pilots who served in the
Vietnam war,” Hussaini
said with a grin.

Air Chief Marshal Anwar

Shamim, the then-
CAS was in search of
an aviation illustrator.
ACM Anwar Shamim
gave him his studio, a
rectangular room, tucked
away in a corner inside
Chaklala Airbase. He
was permitted to go
through documents,
archived pictures
and given unlimited low level formation flights, high action dog
access to places to impart the fights and PAF jets engaging in air-to-ground
feelings of power, motion, and the attacks.
intensity required to breathe life
on his canvass. Hussaini wanted a Hussaini is a realist in the tradition of the
better understanding of places and leading aviation artist of the United States
Acrylics are his choice of medium that has fast-drying “Butch” Ahmad’s low flying F-86, and the struggle for air
purposes of his subjects. As an artist, Keith Ferris, Frank Wootton of the UK and
qualities, which enables him to attain a high level of detail supremacy when a PAF F-16 pilot downing a Russian
he appreciated natural beauty of Paul Langeley of France. Ferris was the first
and intricacy. With dozens of books, aircraft models, SU-25.
landscape and atmosphere. professional artist to recognize Hussaini’s
magazines and photographs in his studio, Hussaini has
talent and became his friend and mentor.
created accurate and authentic works, relying on his The artist has held several exhibitions at home and
The camouflage of the aircraft, tail Hussaini shares with these aviation artists
references to ensure that each artwork is in line with his abroad, most recently at the Royal International Air Tattoo
number, armament it is carrying, the ability to use aerial points of view that are
high quality standards. (RIAT) show, where the inside of a PAF C-130 was turned
altitude, position of the sun at that both unusual and dramatic, perspectives that
into an art gallery.
time of a particular event, pilots’ log instill a sense of G-force and excitement on
Hussaini gives us a dramatic pilots’-eye view over
books and experiences, pulling up, the canvass.
Umarkot, 1971, after Gp Capt Waqar Azim delivered a Masood Akhtar Hussaini has built up his reputation as
the position of the target, finding Keith Ferris has enjoyed knowing Hussiani for
coup-de-grace during the desert strikes, nail-biting drama an aviation artist in his ability to paint a wide range of
people who saw it all happen, all more than 30 years. “It has been a pleasure
during the 1965 Pathankot attack, a bitter air battle over aviation subjects, capturing mood and atmospherics of a
these factors and a lot more figure to watch Hussaini’s progress in the aviation
Gurdaspur, when debris pierced the right wing of Alauddin phenomenal moment or event in PAF aviation history.
into his paintings of high speed art world as he became the official Pakistan

85 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 86

It’s not easy to paint these days
though, he said. “Aerial combat has
changed so much and is fought
from a distance. Today pilots cannot
describe the chaos of aerial battles,
whether the enemy was raked across
the fuselage with gunfire or where
the he crashed. Now you have to go
through computer recordings to get a
picture of what happened and how it
must have looked,” Hussaini said.
Hussaini loves painting the F-86. It’s
an aircraft, he says, that is beautiful
from all angles. While all his 300
plus paintings are his best works,
in the moment when he painted
This work is bigger than images of Rashid Minhas for his mission. I
them, Hussaini has yet to finish his
planes flying through a cloudy night knew Matti would never make it,”
most important painting ever. He
or against a brilliant sunset — mist Hussaini said in his tribute to Rashid
has been working on it for decades.
blowing off wings or sunlight reflecting Minhas.
from the fuselage. That painting, which
In 1987, the President commemorates the service of the late Hussaini paints him on and off but
pilot officer Rashid Minhas. it is never enough. He has painted
of Pakistan conferred
officers with admiration such as
on him the Tamgha-i­ Hussaini was not just in the same 51st Wing Commander M Zafar Masud,
Basalat in recognition of GDP course as Rashid Minhas, they the leader of ‘Falcons’, 1958, ‘prince
his contributions as the were roommates. “Mattiur Rehman of pilots’ Sqn Ldr FS Hussaini, and
Aviation Artist of the PAF. made the worst choice when he chose Sqn Ldr Sarfaraz Rafiqui, giving them
This was followed in 1998 an air of movie star glamour, youthful
handsomeness or a steely gaze, and
by the President’s Pride
Top - Two Friends: Plt Off Hussaini (2nd from other knights of the air in dashing
of Performance Award to right sitting) and Plt Off Rashid Minhas
PAF uniforms . But he often asks
Hussaini. The American (4th from right last row) on their graduation
himself, how does one pay homage
ceremony at PAF Academy Risalpur.
Society of Aviation Artists (Photo: PAF Archive) to the mammoth act of gallantry of
has honoured him with Rashid Minhas?
their fellowship after his Bottom: Gp Capt Hussaini (Retd) explaining
work was displayed at an the historical perspective of a painting to Until the day that the PAF’s resident
aviation enthusiasts during RIAT-2019 at magician completes his greatest
American exhibition. Fair Ford, UK. (Photo: AWO Iftikhar)
work till date, that space on the wall
of his studio will miss a painting that
captures the spirit of the men and
women who serve in Pakistan Air
Force – the men and women that
spend their lives in the strive to keep
the Pakistan Air Force, Second to
None.

87 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e

REPORT TALHA UL HUDA
In the rundown of the event, the

A View from the Slopes of

women’s Giant Slalom category at
the 4th CAS Karakoram International
Alpine Ski Cup’s Gold medal was
bagged by a young Pakistani skier,
Khus¬him Sahiba. She also went
ahead to grab the gold medal in the
same category at the 3rd Malam
Jabba International Alpine Ski Cup,
making it a double national victory.

T
The runner up at the 4th CAS Cup
he Malam Jabba Ski resort is a was a skier from Azerbaijan, Elvira
breathtaking sight. Standing tall amidst the Zakarayeva, while Umama Wali,
snow-laden Swat valley, the international (of the infamous Wali sisters of
ski-resort tells a tale of resilience and Pakistan) got the bronze medal.
courage of the Pakistani nation in the face Ukrainian skiers broke the finish
who clinched the silver medal and Top: Untainted Heaven: The
of tyranny. Standing at 8,496 feet above ribbon in the men’s giant slalom valleys of Naltar seem lost
Aib Vitalli, came out with a bronze.
sea level, the once-deserted ski resort now entertains category at the 4th CAS Karakoram in fantasy. (Photo: Snr Tech
hundreds of enthralled skiers from around the world. International Alpine Ski Cup. Nazarity Naveed)
A total of 36 international skiers
Home to international Ski slaloms, Malam Jabba is South Petruk bagged the gold medal in a
from across the globe arrived in Bottom: An international skier
Asia’s winter-sport centrifuge. With Pakistan gradually close shave with Ivan clenches his teeth as he leans
the picturesque valley of Malam
evolving into a tourist highlight, international sporting Kravchuk, in to keep his balance in the
Jabba. Participating countries third Malam Jabba International
events are an essential.
include Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Alpine Ski Cup.
Canada, Greece, Tajikistan, Timor (Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer)

Leste, Turkey, Ukraine and the

United Kingdom. More than 60
national skiers from different
On 9th February, 2020, Pakistan Top: Olympian regions and belonging to various
Muhamamd Abbas
held a thrilling skiing event at ski associations of the
leans to his left as
Malam Jabba Ski Resort. The he glides smoothly country competed with the
resort witnessed three major titles over the powder. international skiers at the
which included 3rd Malam Jabba (Photo: PAF Alpine Ski Cup 2020.
Archive)
International Alpine Ski Cup, 4 th

CAS Karakoram International

Alpine Ski Cup and 27th National
Ski Championship. The honorable Left: Slopes fit
for Royalty-HRH
President of Pakistan Arif Alvi visited Princess Beatrice
Malam Jabba to distribute prizes poses candidly.
among the winners of the 3rd Malam (Photo: Online)
Jabba International Alpine Ski Cup,
4th CAS Karakoram International
Alpine Ski Cup and 27th National Ski
Championship. The Premier hailed the vigorous efforts
of the Pakistan Air Force and the Pakistan Winter sports
Federation to promote winter sports in Pakistan for the
past several decades. In a highlight, His Excellency, the
British High Commissioner Dr Christian Turner participated
in the Karakoram International Alpine Ski Cup 2020. He was
leading a team of international skiers belonging to different
countries, including Canada, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Greece,
Azerbaijan, Timor Leste, Azerbaijan and Turkey. In a heart-
warming video, posted on his social media accounts, Mr.
Turner referred to Pakistan as a ‘wonderful
country,’ appreciating how ‘Pakistan is
changing for the better.’

89 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 90

 The first-ever International Alpine
Ski Cup at Malam Jabba was
organized in January, 2017, where
32 international participants
belonging to 9 countries had
participated in the event.

Another joyous benchmark in

the revival of snow sports was
registered when “HRH Princess
Beatrice of York, Jose Maria
Aznar(Former Prime Minister of
Spain), Matteo Renzi (Former
Prime Minister of Italy), Zia Chishti
and Frederico Rigoni visited
Pakistan for a ski trip. United
Kingdom’s High Commissioner to
Pakistan, H.E Christian Turner led
the high-level expedition, setting
off on their trip after calling on
Top: Skiers and organizers smile joyously on
Prime Minister Imran Khan.
the Prize Distribution ceremony of 4th CAS
Karakoram International Alpine Ski Cup.
(Photo: Cpl Tech Irfan) For adventure-aficionados, the winter season brings a cluster of celebratory and fun opportunities. Snow-covered peaks that
Left: Treacherous Tilts - Traversing the slopes
present a heavenly visage and plateaus offer a range of options to indulge in various winter sports. Pakistan offers one of
of Malam Jabba at breathtaking speeds is not the most serene and visually divine landscapes that provide a fantastic opportunity for winter sports.
for amateurs. (Photo: Cpl Tech Rashid)

Bottom Left: Shaving off the edge - A skier The Government of Pakistan by extension of the Tourism Development Corporation of Khyber Pukhtunkhwa has worked
skillfully grinds to a halt in the fresh snow. fervently to rejuvenate Pakistan’s international image and to reestablish Pakistan as a popular tourist destination around the
(Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer) world. Pakistan has jumped several places on global safety indices ever since the law and order situation has improved and
Bottom Right Above: A Female skier leisurely peace has been restored across the country. In 2020, various international publications have declared Pakistan as one of the
enjoys the maiden snow after descending the top tourist destinations in the world.
slope. (Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer)

Bottom Right below: Pushing the limits - A

competitive skier lowers his center of gravity as A total of 36
international skiers
he steers for maximum speed.
(Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer)

from across the

globe arrived in the
picturesque valley of
Malam Jabba
in 2020.

Top Right : All smiles - Foreign Skiers land

at Saidu Sharif (Swat) to participate in 27th
National Ski Championship 2020 held at
Malam Jabba Ski Resort.
(Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer)

Left: Something for everyone - Athletes from

various parts of Pakistan assemble for taking
part in inter–university competitions.
(Photo: Snr Tech Qadeer)

91 PA F Magazi ne SECOND TO NONE SECOND TO NONE PAF M agaz in e 92

 A
S. KHALIL TRIBUTE
zam Khan, who joined the likes of Hashim Azam relied greatly on the basic virtues “The owner wasn’t in good health and in Azam hails from a Pashtun clan,
Khan and Roshan Khan, after winning of the game but nobody hit the volley 1957 he asked me to take over the club. where the young rule the roost not
the British Open Championship for four drop nick better. Jonah Barrington I didn’t have the financial resources to necessarily when they are better, but
consecutive years, passed on in London, called him ‘Azam the accountant’ in buy the facility, so he asked me to pay when the elders decide that it is time
29 March, 2020. The cause was corona his book Murder in the Squash Court. in installments over a period of five for them to step up and shine. He once
virus, his family said. He was 95. “If Hashim was the most devastating years. That’s how I came to own the said,”Respect for an elder is very much
savage of the great Khans, and Roshan club,” Azam Khan had responded in ingrained in our Pushtun culture,” and
In a tribute to the late squash legend, Ijaz Chaudhry

You will be Remembered. .

the most beautiful stroke player, Azam an interview to a question as to why Azam took pride in his roots.
described Azam Khan as the least-acclaimed of all would have been the little accountant, he decided to settle in the UK. Hence
the great squash Khans, but a player who might have methodically arranging all the bits and Azam’s association with the club was His career in squash met it’s untimely
been the greatest of them all. “Winning the British pieces of the game, having everything more than half a century old. During demise when he ruptured a tendon
Open four times in succession is no mean feat, yet under close analysis, nothing out of this period it has been associated with soon after his fourth victory in early
Azam Khan achieved just that between 1959 and place. He was meticulous, organised, the emergence of several outstanding 1960s. Even though he recovered from
He knew the x’s and o’s, the mental part of the game. 1962,” he said. He goes on to describe Azam Khan, ruthlessly clinical and very deft, players. the injury two years later, he was unable
He made you excited about squash, the way he played, served as a tenacious performer, who secured his position as efficient, and he constantly sucked to recover from the tragic loss of his 14
and volleyed, stepping in the court faster than the ball. Azam one of the most successful squash players of all time. you into situations from which it was In 1973, Air Marshal Nur Khan, as years old son.
Khan had the champions mentality and went out there to win. One of the best shot makers, Azam Khan, was Hashim impossible to extricate yourself. He chairman of Pakistan International
Khan’s younger brother. Initially Azam’s game was was totally silent on court, like a little Airlines in 1973, made earnest efforts He may not have been able to dominate
This write up honours the late squash champion, who thrilled bird. There was none of this stamping to revive Pakistan’s squash fortunes. the world of squash for a long time, but
tennis. “I was a tennis coach at the officers’ club of
and entertained time and again, and helped turn squash into the Pakistan Air Force. My elder (and only) brother, and pounding that one hears so He invited Azam Khan to return to he defined squash. It will not be easy to
the phenomenon it is today. Hashim, who had won the last two British Opens,
asked me to switch to squash. I was 26 at the time
and had never played the game.” In 1952, Azam Khan
joined his brother in the world of squash. He would play
the reigning champion in almost all the subsequent Azam Khan proved
British Opens and other major finals. Hashim Khan,
that hard work and
the winner of seven consecutive British Open Squash
championships, was all of a sudden, faced with an focused approach would
opponent, who moved as well as he did and was as ensure success in fulfilling the
strong mentally. Within two years of Hashim’s bidding,
Azam was ready to take on the best in the world. desired objectives in one’s life.
He was a motivating force for
The Air Force raised the funds for his trip to Britain
through exhibition matches at various bases. His the younger generations of
first competition there was the British Professional Pakistan squash players.
Championship, where he defeated the British no. 1 in
the semis and lost to his elder brother in the final. :Air Chief
It is said that as a child, Azam was very active and
energetic and to channel this unbridled verve, he was
encouraged to indulge in sports. From there on grew
his passion for sports so much so he devoted his time frequently these days; he moved like Pakistan to help. “But I couldn’t leave beat his records. His dedication for the
to maximizing his potential in the field. a ghost, silently hither and thither. Yet London. I had to look after my club as game helped him slide into the history
For him, the prize was the British Open, the Wimbledon wherever you hit the ball, he was there.” well as my family. Nur Khan persisted books. Whenever people talk about
of Squash, and the opportunity to match world class Such was his proficiency that Jonah and suggested that some Pakistani the greatest players of all times, Azam
athletes. To reach his goal, he had to defeat Hashim Barrington was taken to play him, in players be sent to England to be trained Khan is right up there.
Khan, his elder brother and his mentor. Azam Khan, the first year that Jonah won the British by me. I agreed to train Qamar Zaman
demonstrated why he could also be one of the greatest Open (1966), at the West London club and Mohibullah Khan Jr. For six weeks, President of PSF, Chief of Air Staff, PAF,
squash players of all time. The Azam vs Hashim which Azam owns, the New Grampians they prepared for the 1975 British Open Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan,
meets were the high points in squash amidst in Shepherds Bush. Jonah lost to Azam under my supervision. And Qamar described the legend as an inspiration
game enthusiasts. A fit and determined 9-0,9-1,9-0. He requested another Zaman ended the long drought by for the young squash players in the
Azam Khan, strode into top positions, match, which Jonah also lost in a bringing back the title to Pakistan.” country. “He proved that hard work
and ignited interests in the sports anew. similar manner. and focused approach would ensure
Given that his arrival in this sport was The only times Azam lost in the British success in fulfilling the desired
late at 26 years of age, statistics were After an exhibition match against his Open finals was the three times he objectives in one’s life. His name is
just meaningless distractions to an brother in 1956, at the New Grampians played against his older brother, for a motivating force for the younger
ambitious Azam Khan. His performance Club in Shepherds Bush, the owner whom he had tremendous respect and generations of Pakistan squash players
was indicative of his natural aptitude and of the club approached Azam Khan admiration, saying that, “He was my to achieve greater heights,” Mujahid
flare to go on to become a champion, and and offered him the job as a coach. coach and my mentor.” Anwar Khan said in his tribute to the
he began dreaming afar. The offer included a salary as well as champion.
accommodation.

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[News] BULLETIN [News] BULLETIN
AIR MARSHAL AHMER SHEHZAD LEGHARI APPOINTED AS
AIR CHIEF MEETS WINNING TEAM VICE CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF 17 January, 2020:- The Government of
Pakistan has appointed Air Marshal Ahmer
09 JANUARY, 2020:- Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force met the Shehzad Leghari as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force. Air Marshal Leghari was
Pakistan Junior Squash Team, which participated in the recently concluded British Junior Open Squash Championship commissioned in GD (P) Branch of Pakistan Air Force in November, 1984. During his illustrious
at Birmingham. Air Chief, who is also President career, he commanded a fighter squadron and operational airbase. In his staff appointments,
the Air Marshal served at Air Headquarters as Chief Project Director Falcon and Director General
Pakistan Squash Federation lauded their
Projects and also rendered services as Air Attaché at Pakistan Embassy, USA. Other significant
performance in this prestigious event and appointments of the Air Officer include Director General Logistics at Joint Staff Headquarters
also awarded cash prizes among the players. Chaklala and Chairman Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Board, Kamra. Air Marshal Leghari is a
Hamza Khan, who won the Under 15 title was graduate of Combat Commanders’ School, National Defence University Islamabad and Command
awarded cash prize of Rs 500,000 (Five Lac). & Staff College, UK. In recognition of his meritorious services and valuable contributions to PAF,
he has been awarded Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military), Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military), Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military).

Interacting with players, the Air Chief said that

nation is proud of our young Squash player
Hamza Khan, who brought laurels to the
CJCSC ARRIVES AT AIR HEADQUARTERS ON
country by winning the championship after 8
years. He appreciated the hard work put in by
HIS MAIDEN VISIT
the coaching staff for providing international 21 January, 2020: General Nadeem Raza, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee
standard training and coaching facilities to arrived at Air Headquarters, Islamabad on his maiden visit after assuming the charge
the young players. He also lauded the efforts of office at Joint Staff Headquarters. General Nadeem Raza called on Air Chief Marshal
Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force in his office. Both the
of Pakistan Squash Federation in making
dignitaries discussed matters of professional interest. The Air Chief highlighted various
concerted efforts for bringing back the lost
ongoing projects being carried out by PAF. CJCSC lauded the valiant response by brave
glory in the game of Squash.
air warriors during Operation Swift Retort, in line with the glorious traditions of Pakistan
Air Force.

AIR CHIEF CALLS ON “SINCERITY OF PURPOSE AND

DEVOTION ARE THE AVENUES,
THE KING OF BAHRAIN WHICH LEAD TO SUCCESS”: AIR CHIEF
14 January, 2020: Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force called on His
Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa at Defence Forces Headquarters. The Air Chief conveyed the best wishes 26 January, 2020: “The education you years back from PAF College, Sargodha, their Alma Mater. The Air Chief
and greetings from the government and people of Pakistan. King Hamad expressed his satisfaction on the level of are receiving here, will open up new vistas congratulated the school administration for wholesome personality
brotherly relations and bilateral cooperation between the two countries. He also expressed Bahrain’s keenness to of knowledge for you. Remember, that development of the young boys, which is a testament to the care,
further boost cooperation with Pakistan in the field of defence in general and Air Force in particular. sincerity of purpose and devotion are the affection and guidance that they received from their teachers”. He also
avenues, which lead to success”, said the Air appreciated the initiative taken by school administration for providing the
Earlier, the Air Chief also met General Shaikh Mohammed Bin Isa Bin Chief, while addressing the students during need-based scholarships to deserving students. Highlighting the great
Slaman Al Khalifa, Commander of the National Guard and Lieutenant the 15th Founders’ Day of Sargodhian Spirit role of teachers
General Dhiyab bin Saqr Al-Nuaimi, Chief-of-Staff, Bahrian Defense Force. Trust Public School at Rashidabad. Air in nation building,
Various matters of bilateral cooperation and professional interest were Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief he said that the
discussed during the meetings. of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was the teachers have been
Chief Guest at the occasion. entrusted to prepare
The Air Chief also called on Major General Shaikh Hammad bin Abdullah young
Al Khalifa, Commander of Bahrain Royal Air Force. Commander of Bahrain Addressing at the occasion, the
Royal Air Force appreciated high standards of professionalism being set Chief Guest lauded the efforts of Old
by Pakistan Air Force over the years. The Air Chief offered support to the Sargodhians, who very aptly utilized their
Bahrain Air Force in the fields of military training and aviation. potential, skills and knowledge to pay
back to the nation what they had received

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[News] BULLETIN [News] BULLETIN

PRESIDENT INAUGURATES FAZAIA RUTH PFAU MEDICAL COLLEGE

04 February, 2020: President nation-building, particularly in the PAF Hospital Faisal and PAF
Dr Arif Alvi inaugurated the newly fields of healthcare and education. Hospital Masroor would serve as
constructed Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical He hoped that this college would be teaching hospitals for college along
College in Karachi. On his arrival, he a valuable addition in the long list of with a state of the art Diagnostic
was received by Air Chief Marshal public service endeavours carried out Center equipped with most modern
Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air by PAF in recent years. facilities including MRI, CT scan,
Staff, Pakistan Air Force. Later on, the chief guest unveiled Digital X Ray, Mammography, and
Addressing at the occasion, the chief the plaque and offered Dua for the Fluoroscopy. The college also has
guest appreciated the relentless success of the project. He also a well-equipped Laboratory, with
efforts of the team members in visited various facilities of the college facilities of Hematology, Serology,
carrying out this remarkable project and interacted with the faculty and Chemical Pathology, Blood Bank,
in record time, as per the standards paramedic staff. Principal Staff Micro Biology, Clinical Pathology and
of Pakistan Medical Council. He Officers and high ranking civil and Histopathology.
further said that Pakistan Air Force military officials also attended the
is significantly contributing towards ceremony.

AIR CHIEF AIR CHIEF CALLS ON SRI PRIZE DISTRIBUTION

LANKAN DEFENCE MINISTER CEREMONY OF TWO
CALLS ON & NAVAL CHIEF INTERNATIONAL
PRIME 08 February, 2020: Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar
Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force called SKI EVENTS HELD
on Mr Chamal Rajapaksa, State Minister of Defence.

MINISTER The Air Chief reiterated to offer all-out support and

cooperation to Sri Lanka in defence related fields. Both
the dignitaries agreed to further enhance the existing
OF bilateral cooperation between both the countries.

SRI LANKA
Later in the day, the Air Chief had a meeting with Vice
Admiral Piyal De Silva, Commander Sri Lanka Navy in his
office. Matters related to bilateral defence collaboration
and mutual interest were discussed at length during the
12 February, 2020: Prize distribution ceremony of
meeting. Earlier on his arrival at Naval Headquarters, he
4th CAS Karakoram International Alpine Ski Cup,
was presented guard of honour by a smartly turned out
07 February, 2020: Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Earlier in the day, the Air Chief visited Sri Lanka Air Force 3rd Malam Jabba International Alpine Ski Cup
Headquarters. A smartly turned out contingent of Sri Lanka contingent of Sri Lanka Navy.
Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force arrived in Sri Lanka and 27th National Ski Championship was held at
on an official visit. The Air Chief called on the Prime Minister Air Force presented him the Guard of Honour. He called on Serena Hotel Islamabad. President of Pakistan Dr
of Sri Lanka Mr Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his Office. The Sri Air Marshal Sumangala Dias, Commander Sri Lanka Air
Arif Alvi was the chief guest at the occasion. Air
Lankan Prime Minister acknowledged Pakistan’s unwavering Force. Bilateral matters pertaining to mutual professional
Marshal Ahmer Shehzad, Vice Chief of the Air Staff,
support to Sri Lanka in any hour of need. He also underscored interest came under discussion during the meeting. The Air
who is also President Winter Sports Federation of
the need of learning from each other’s experience. The Air Chief offered to provide training assistance and cooperation
Pakistan was also present at the occasion. Mr
Chief assured of sustained support and cooperation in the in various aviation related fields to his counterpart. The Sri
Aziz Bolani, CEO Serena Hotels, ambassadors,
fields of technical training and professional expertise. He also Lankan Air Chief thanked Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar
high ranking defence & civil officials also attended
reiterated to further enhance the existing friendly relations Khan for such sincere offer of cooperation and agreed to
explore new avenues to enhance bilateral professional the ceremony.
between both the countries in general and the air forces in
particular. cooperation.

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[News] BULLETIN [News] BULLETIN
PAF COMMEMORATES THE VICTORY IN OPERATION INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON “GLOBAL STRATEGIC THREAT &
SWIFT RETORT IN A BEFITTING MANNER RESPONSE” CONCLUDES
05 MARCH, 2020: International
27 February, 2020: Pakistan Air Force,
seminar on “Global Strategic
living up to its legacy, yet again made its
mark through professional excellence Threat & Response” held under the
and valour during Operation Swift Retort auspices of Centre for Aerospace &
last year. Indeed, PAF prompt, measured Security Studies (CASS) concluded
and surprising response busted the at Islamabad. Makhdoom Shah
aggressor’s arrogance” said the Air Chief Mahmood Qureshi, Federal Minister
while addressing a ceremony held at Air of Foreign Affairs was the chief
Headquarters, Islamabad to commemorate guest of the closing session. Air
the PAF’s resounding victory in “Operation Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan,
Swift Retort”. Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air
Anwar Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was the chief guest at the occasion.Addressing the audience,
Force was also present at the occasion.
the Air Chief further said, “While I assure Pakistani nation, on the preparedness of PAF to counter threats, we will not
compromise on sovereignty or territorial integrity of Pakistan. Let there be no doubt that, PAF is, and would remain, In the first session of the day, Air Vice Marshal Faaiz Amir (Retd) talked about The Role of Aerospace Power in South
reassuring fundamental of national defence.” He added that prior to aggression last year, our national leadership had Asia, while Lieutenant General Aamir Riaz (Retd), former President National Defence University gave a comprehensive
made it amply clear that no misadventure against Pakistan would ever go un-responded. Former Air Chiefs and a large presentation on Hybrid Warfare. Jorge Sebastiao, Chief Technology Officer Huawei Middle East & European Union,
number of PAF officials witnessed the ceremony. Earlier, a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Air Force presented covered various aspects of Cyber Warfare. In the second session of the day, Lieutenant General Nasser Khan Janjua
the Guard of Honour. Another important event of the ceremony was a spectacular fly past by two formations of PAF
(Retd), former National Security Advisor talked about Force Posturing for the Future, while General Philippe Steininger
fighter aircraft including F-16, JF-17 and Mirage aircraft.
(Retd), Military Adviser to the President of CNES (French space agency) spoke on the topic of Force Posturing for
To commemorate the success of ‘Operation Swift Retort’, a PAF air display event with the title ‘Wings of the Freedom Air Industrially Independent and Dependent Countries. Air Commodore Simon Edwards, Assistant Chief of Staff Capability
Show’ was held at Sea View Karachi. The air show opened with the fly past of PAF fighter formations. In lead was a four Delivery, Royal Air Force encompassed the various aspects of Next Generation Training, whereas, Air Marshal Javaid
ship formation of F-16 aircraft. It was followed by the JF-17 Thunder formation of No 2 Sqn, call sign ‘The Minhasians’. Ahmed (Retd), VC Air University highlighted the Role of PAF in Sustaining Deterrence.
Next to enter the arena was the ‘Bandits’ formation of No 7 Sqn, comprising four Mirage aircraft in a tightly-knit box
formation. After the fly past, Augusta-139 helicopters along with veteran MI-17 helis of PAF entered the venue in three Fifteen renowned scholars including nine international experts from diverse backgrounds delivered lectures
ship formation. Much awaited solo aerobatics on different topics such as emerging new world order, regional security, technology development, air power,
performance by the Pride of the Nation JF-17 hybrid warfare and cyber warfare etc in the two day seminar. The main objective of the seminar was to create a
Thunder aircraft was the next item on the list. comprehensive global forum seeking experts’ inputs and providing perspectives on changing balance of power,
Flown by Wing Commander Mudassir Riaz,
emerging technologies, aerospace employment and new modes of warfare.
Thunder enthralled the audience with its thundery
performance. Minutes after the exit of Thunder,
Wing Commander Zeeshan Ali Munawar dashed
in to the venue, flying the F-16 Falcon. Like

GONE... BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN

always, the finale of the show ended with the
breath taking performance by the ‘Sherdils’.
Later in the day, an Aviation Art Competition and
Exhibition under the theme of “PAF Air Battles – Fellow fighter pilots and his colleagues on ground will remember Wg Cdr Nauman
Particularly Operation Swift Retort” was also held
Akram for the wonderful and brave pilot that he was. The Top Gun lost his life
at Pakistan National Council of Arts, Islamabad.
during rehearsals for the Parade Day on 11th March 2020. In October, 2019, the
Speaker National Assembly, Mr. Asad Qaiser
and Federal Minister for Planning, Development, F-16 pilot, Nauman Akram won the Sher Afghan trophy during the Inter-Squadron
Armament Competition (ISAC). His No 9 Squadron came in second place.

Reforms and Special Initiatives Mr Asad Umar attended the Born into a military family, Nauman Akram was a first division holder in Matric and FSC and joined Pakistan Air
ceremony as the guests of honour. Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar
Force in 1997. From then on it had been a steep climb to a successful career. Nauman Akram had completed
Khan, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was also present at
various courses including conversion courses from one jet aircraft to another including two Senior Command
the occasion.
and Staff Courses. After finishing a four-year tenure in Qatar, Nauman Akram was appointed as Flight
The budding artists from all over the country participated in various Commander Operations till May 2019. From May onward, the Wg Cdr was appointed as OC No 9 Squadron,
categories including painting, sketching, digital painting and which was also his last position before his life was cut short in the accident.
photography. The first prize in the categories of Aviation Photography
and Aviation Sketching was clinched by Awais Ahmed Lali. Amber
Besides being awarded Chief of Air Staff Commendation Certificates and Excellence Badge, in 2019, Nauman
Munir won the first prize in Aviation Painting, while Hamid Ali got first
position in Digital Aviation Painting Category. Akram was bestowed Tamgha-e-Basalat.

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