The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Minister of Defence, Minister of Planning & Development, Minister of Information, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), and Chief of the Naval Staff. Upon arrival at the base, he was received by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M).

According to the ISPR, the Prime Minister was given a comprehensive briefing on the operational preparedness and combat capabilities of the PAF. He interacted with frontline personnel—including pilots, engineers, and technical staff—and expressed deep appreciation for their professionalism, precision, and unwavering dedication to the defence of Pakistan.

Addressing the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, “In the wake of unprovoked aggression, Pakistan’s Armed Forces exhibited exemplary restraint, strategic foresight, and operational precision. Their swift and calibrated response not only neutralised the threat but also delivered a decisive blow to hostile military infrastructure—unequivocally reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

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He continued, “The entire nation takes immense pride in the valour and vigilance of its Armed Forces. Under the capable stewardship of the Chief of Army Staff, our defenders have once again underscored that Pakistan’s security is inviolable, and any act of belligerence will be met with a forceful, resolute, and unforgiving response.”

Highlighting PAF’s operational achievements, the Prime Minister revealed, “Confirmation of successful downing of a sixth Indian aircraft on the night of 6/7 May, a Mirage-2000 near Pampore east of Srinagar, is further a testament to the PAF’s combat excellence and the unflinching resolve of our Armed Forces to protect the motherland at all costs.”

He commended the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, saying: “His pivotal role in modernising the PAF and spearheading the seamless integration of advanced technologies has significantly enhanced the Force’s operational capabilities.”

In a tribute to air personnel, he said that, “To our fearless pilots and dedicated air personnel—your courage and precision embody the indomitable spirit of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. You have stood resolute, upholding the sanctity of our skies and defending the sovereignty of our country with unwavering resolve.”

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Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed national resolve, “Pakistan’s Armed Forces remain fully prepared and resolutely committed to defending every inch of our territory. Any aggression will be countered with a timely, proportionate, and decisive response. We stand united, vigilant, and unshakable for the defence of our homeland.”

The visit, as noted by ISPR, reflects the government’s strong commitment to national defence and its continued support for the Armed Forces in ensuring the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

PTV to air PM’s Speech

The prime minister lauded the bravery and skill of the “Shaheens” (falcons) of the PAF, whose swift and decisive action shattered the enemy’s illusion of aerial dominance during the high-stakes confrontation, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said.

Speaking to the PAF pilots, Prime Minister Sharif said, “The entire nation stands proud of your courage. You have not only defended our skies, but also upheld Pakistan’s honour on the global stage.”

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Pakistan Television (PTV) will air the prime minister’s historic conversation with the PAF pilots who thwarted Indian aerial aggression in a special broadcast this evening.