Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu said the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has consistently maintained a strong defense line. Speaking at the graduation parade at Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur, he claimed that Rafale jets proved “ineffective” against the PAF during Operation Bunyan Marsous in May. He said the operation successfully defeated enemy forces.
The Air Chief added that the PAF demonstrated superiority in cyber warfare, with rapid response operations proving highly effective. “The Air Force humbled the enemy and ensured immediate action against any threats,” he said. He emphasized that Pakistan’s security will never be compromised. The PAF reportedly targeted enemy radar systems and monitored hostile movements in real-time.
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The graduation ceremony included cadets from the 151 GDP, 97 Engineering, and 108 Air Defense courses. Navigation Alpha, Admin and Special Duties, and 11 Logistics course cadets also graduated. Combat support and 98 EC Royal Saudi Air Force cadets were part of the parade. The event featured a flypast by fighter jets and the Sherdil Aerobatics Team.
The PAF’s statement comes in the context of May 6–7, 2025, when, following a terrorist attack in Pehlgam Valley near Indian-occupied Kashmir, Indian forces reportedly attempted incursions into Pakistan. According to the PAF, its jets destroyed five Indian fighter aircraft, including three French-made Rafale jets, across three locations in Azad Kashmir and Punjab.
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Various international media outlets, citing Indian security sources, have confirmed the destruction of these aircraft. France’s military spokesperson reportedly acknowledged the loss of the Rafale jets for the first time. U.S. President Donald Trump had also previously commented on multiple aircraft losses during the Pakistan-India conflict.