From the Cockpit: Reflections From the PAF’s Past for the Future

Veteran fighter pilot, Wing Commander Salim Baig Mirza (Retd), delivered a guest lecture titled “From the Cockpit: Reflections from the PAF’s Past for the Future” at the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, on 5 September 2024.

 

Air Commodore Khalid Chishti (Retd) initiated the session with a preamble on the 1965 and 1971 wars and also provided an introduction of the guest speaker. He set the tone for the event by highlighting the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) illustrious history and its role in shaping Pakistan’s defence capabilities. His introductory remarks set the stage for a discussion on how past experiences can guide and enhance future strategic directions.

 

Wing Commander Salim, reflecting on his far-reaching experience and engagement in significant historical events, offered a persuasive narrative of the PAF’s contributions during the wars. He provided a profound analysis of the strategies and tactics employed by the Air Force, highlighting the intricacies of aerial combat and the critical decisions that defined those conflicts. Through his narration of air operations, he highlighted the bravery, skill, and resourcefulness of PAF’s pilots, who operated under intense pressure and against challenging odds.

 

During his lecture, he explored significant operational features such as mission planning, training and execution of air strikes, highlighting the need of learning from both triumphs and impediments. The Wing Commander highlighted how the PAF’s experience in conflicts has been influential in evolving its contemporary policies and operational abilities. He also discussed the significance of adapting to technological advancements and underscored the importance of consistent learning and evolution.

 

He emphasised that understanding historical conflicts and operations, besides staying up-to-date on contemporary matters, is vital to anticipate and effectively react to emerging threats.

 

Later, during the interactive session, the audience, comprising both serving and retired military personnel, besides civilians, had the opportunity to explore several characteristics of the Air Force’s operational past and its existent strategic mindset.

 

The event concluded with closing remarks from Air Marshal Asim Suleiman (Retd), President CASS, Lahore, who emphasised the Air Force’s crucial role and status as the leadership’s preferred choice in contemporary warfare. He noted that all modern-day conflicts employ the air medium to achieve military objectives. He also mentioned PAF’s enduring legacy and steadfast dedication to national security.

 

The President further highlighted the ongoing strategic transformation of the PAF under the leadership of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu. He remarked that the PAF is now prioritising cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure to sustain its combat advantage, especially in light of increased defence spending by neighbouring countries like India.