Navy chief lauds PAF’s ‘Marka-e-Haq’ performance at Risalpur graduation ceremony

• Admiral Naveed Ashraf credits leadership, modernization and tech integration for success

• Underscores growing PAF edge in cyber, space and electronic warfare domains, saying Academy produces officers after rigorous training courses

• Jointmanship highlighted as armed forces deepen synergy for national defence readiness

• Flypast by JF-17, F-16 and Sherdils caps ceremony with aerial display of precision and skill

 ISLAMABAD/RISALPUR: Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf on Tuesday lauded the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) outstanding performance during Marka-e-Haq May 2025, attributing its success to visionary leadership, modernization, and the effective integration of advanced technologies under the dynamic leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, the military’s media wing said.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Admiral Naveed Ashraf was addressing the graduation ceremony of multiple PAF courses held at PAF Academy Asghar Khan, Risalpur, as the chief guest.

GRADUATION CEREMONY HELD AT PAF ACADEMY ASGHAR KHAN

14 April, 2026 : Graduation Ceremony of 152nd GD(P), 98th Engineering, 109th Air Defence (Alpha & Bravo), 28th Admin & Special Duties (Alpha & Bravo), 11th Logistics (Alpha) and 135th Combat Support Courses was held at PAF… pic.twitter.com/CZNRaEK98i

— DGPR (AIR FORCE) (@DGPR_PAF) April 14, 2026

The graduating cohorts included the 152nd GD(P), 98th Engineering, 109th Air Defence (Alpha & Bravo), 28th Admin & Special Duties (Alpha & Bravo), 11th Logistics (Alpha), and 135th Combat Support Courses.

Upon arrival, the chief guest was received by Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan, Air Officer Commanding, PAF Academy Asghar Khan, while Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force, was also present on the occasion.

Addressing the graduating cadets, Admiral Naveed Ashraf congratulated them on successfully completing their rigorous training and commended the academy for producing officers embodying strong character, discipline, and professionalism. He expressed confidence that the young officers would carry forward the PAF’s legacy of excellence and uphold its vision of being “Second to None,” in line with its enduring ideals.

Highlighting operational advancements, he underscored the PAF’s growing proficiency in multi-domain warfare—particularly in electronic, cyber, and space domains—and urged the graduating officers to remain prepared for future challenges through constant vigilance and a proactive response to evolving threats.

Emphasizing jointmanship, the naval chief noted that the Pakistan Navy, in close synergy with sister services, continues to strengthen its operational capabilities through modernization and the induction of advanced platforms to deter aggression and safeguard national maritime interests.

He further pointed to the complex and evolving security environment faced by Pakistan, reaffirming that the Armed Forces, backed by unwavering national support, remain fully committed to defending the country and contributing to regional peace and stability.

A total of 113 aviation cadets graduated on the occasion, with the chief guest awarding trophies to those who demonstrated outstanding performance.

Avn Cdt Squadron Under Officer Nad-e-Ali received the Chief of the Defence Forces Trophy for overall best performance in General Service Training. Avn Cdt Navaira Shahzad and Avn Cdt Muhammad Abdullah Ejaz were awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Trophies for best performance in Engineering and Air Defence courses, respectively. Avn Cdt Faran Javed secured the trophy for best performance in the Combat Support Course. Meanwhile, Avn Cdt Wing Under Officer Basit Aliyan Siddiqui and Avn Cdt Salman Saeed were awarded Swords of Honour for best performance in the College of Aeronautical Engineering and College of Flying Training, respectively.

The ceremony was attended by senior military officials, distinguished guests, and families of the graduating cadets. It concluded with a spectacular flypast of PAF frontline fighter aircraft, including JF-17 Thunder and F-16 jets, followed by an impressive aerobatic display by the Sherdils formation team, showcasing precision, professionalism, and operational excellence.