Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu on Tuesday declared that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) had “defeated the enemy” in Operation Banyan-um-Marsūs, asserting that India’s Rafale aircraft “proved to be zero” during the May engagements.
He was speaking at the graduation parade held at the PAF Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur.
Addressing the passing-out parade, the air chief said the PAF delivered a befitting and calculated response when Pakistan’s sovereignty was challenged during the night of May 6 and 7.
He claimed that PAF fighter jets shot down the enemy’s advanced aircraft, including Rafale, and on May 10, the Air Force successfully targeted the adversary’s defence system, achieving operational superiority within moments.
He added that the enemy’s movements were monitored “within seconds”, demonstrating the PAF’s preparedness and real-time operational capability.
Operation Banyan-um-Marsūs
The air chief said Operation Banyan-um-Marsūs highlighted the PAF’s ability to conduct multi-faceted and modern warfare, including cyber operations.
He stated that the Pakistan Air Force had “broken the enemy’s teeth”, proving superiority not only in the air but also in cyberspace, where operations were executed “effectively and instantly”.
He emphasised that the PAF could have inflicted greater damage, “but as a professional force, our actions are deliberate, measured, and aimed solely at achieving peace with honour.”
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu paid tribute to Field Marshal Asim Munir, noting that he played a “leading role” during the conflict.
He stressed that the PAF has remained a strong defensive line in every era, capable of defending Pakistan’s territorial integrity without compromise.
He added that modern technology had been integrated into the force in record time, strengthening both its assets and preparedness.
Graduation parade at PAF Academy Risalpur
Earlier, a prestigious graduation parade was held at the Asghar Khan Academy, where the Air Chief was the chief guest.
Cadets from several courses passed out, including:
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151 GDP,
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97 Engineering,
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108th Air Defence Course,
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Navigation Alpha,
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Admin and Special Duties,
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11th Logistics Course, and
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Cadets from 98 EC Royal Saudi Air Force.
The ceremony also featured an impressive flypast by PAF fighter aircraft and the Sherdil Aerobatics Team, drawing applause from attendees.
Air Chief Sidhu noted that global military observers had acknowledged Pakistan’s aerial performance in the “battle of truth,” and that an international study was under way to examine PAF operations during the May engagements.
“Our success in modern warfare has been recognised worldwide,” he said. “Your training and passion are the real strength of the Pakistan Air Force.”
