~*~Happy Defence Day~*~

The Defence Day of Pakistan

Our national security faced its greatest danger when India launched her most aggressive attack on Pakistan on 6th September, 1965. We were dragged into a battle of survival against an enemy much larger in size and numbers. The brave people of Pakistan displayed immense courage during this fateful war, 35 years ago. They proved that a nation imbued with the true spirit of Jihad cannot be vanquished even by the mightiest forces. While our compatriots did not waver in this grim national trial, their brethren in uniform - soldiers, sailors and airmen - wrote with their valiant deeds an inimitable saga of abiding inspiration.

The entire nation is proud of the supreme success of its Armed Forces in the war of 1965. We hold in great esteem the valour and gallantry of our warriors and are profoundly indebted to our Shaheeds for showing unto us the path of ultimate glory. We, in the defence forces of Pakistan, are honour-bound to follow their illustrious example and remain always ready to foil the enemy designs with similar spirit and passion.

War today is no longer the exclusive domain of military forces. It is fought on various planes, and is increasingly influenced by technology and economic conditions of a nation. As long as nations exist to preserve their way of life, ideological identity and economic interests, wars will continue to be waged on different scales. In spite of our earnest desire for peaceful co-existence, our enemy is feverishly engaged in a continuous military build-up. It is in this perspective that we cannot afford to lower our guards. The challenges ahead will require of us a much greater national harmony and cohesion. A monumental task both for the civilians and Armed Forces personnel is to dedicate all their energies and abilities to make Pakistan a stable and self-reliant nation.

Along with other defence forces, Pakistan Air Force is fully committed to ensure the defence of our national air space. Well-focused efforts are being made at all levels to conserve our critical inventories and draw the best from available assets through uncharitable standards of training and enforcement of safety discipline. By the grace of Allah, our officers and airmen are fully alive to the demands of their calling. I am confident that the PAF will not be found wanting in professionalism and dedication whenever it is called upon to guard our skies. May Allah give us strength and vision to fulfil our obligations to the nation! Pakistan Zindabad!