Summary Army chief was addressing a ceremony in Sargodha.
SARGODHA (Web Desk) - Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has re-equipped fourth Squadron with state-of-the art aircraft F-16s on Wednesday.
Addressing the ceremony in Sargodha, Army Chief General Raheel Sharif said that newly re-equipped inducted F-16 Jets will enhance the capability of Pakistan Air Force.
The Army Chief congratulated the PAF on the induction of new F-16 jet fighters. He said that PAF has always fulfilled people s expectations. The Army Chief added that PAF and Pak Army will fight side by side for the defense of the country.
He said that Pakistan Army will combat any challenge along with PAF.
Pakistan Air Force has re-equipped its fourth Squadron with state-of-the art F-16 jet planes.
A ceremony in this connection was held in Sargodha today. Army Chief General Raheel Sharif was the chief guest.
Addressing the function, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt was also present. Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafiq Butt said that the induction of the F-16 jet fighters into PAF will enable it to cope with external and internal challenges more effectively.
He thanked the Jordanian Air Force for the provision of F-16 jet fighters. He said PAF is ready to confront any foreign aggression.
Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has re-equipped fourth Squadron with state-of-the art aircraft F-16s today.
Earlier, a smartly turned out contingent of 19th Squadron presented the general salute to the chief guest followed by parade.
The Chief Guest transferred the Squadron flag to the new commander. As per tradition newly inducted F-16s presented a fly past followed by a stunning aerial display.
It is worthy to note, that the aircrafts have been purchased at a minimal price from Royal Jordanian Air Force after series of negotiations held between concerned ministries and the concerted efforts of Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt.
Number 19 Squadron "Sherdils" was raised in 1958 at PAF Base Mauripur with 12 American origin F-86F Sabre Aircraft. During 1965 war, Number 19 Squadron, apart from other victories, has the unrivalled distinction of carrying out the first successful close air support mission at Wagha, and famous air strike at Pathankot airfield. It also has the honour of having six Sitara-e-Jurat. In 1990, the Squadron was equipped with Pakistan s newly acquired Chinese F-7P interceptor aircraft and was converted into an Operational Conversion Unit in July 1991.
The current Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt also commanded the Squadron with the onerous responsibility of setting up the new conversion unit. The unit has strengthened the defence of motherland by graduating 652 fighter pilots till date.
