Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir visited a Pakistan Air Force base to witness the ongoing aerial exercise Indus Shield-2023.
The Air Chiefs of Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Hungary were also among the distinguished guests who witnessed PAF's 14-nation mega event.
On his arrival, COAS was received by PAF Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. He was introduced to the foreign dignitaries and the PAF principal staff officers
The COAS and foreign dignitaries were briefed on the training facility of the Air Power Center of Excellence and the extensive scope of the exercise.
Speaking on the occasion, the Army Chief accentuated the paramount importance of multinational air exercises in the pursuit of common objectives amidst the ever-evolving dynamics of air warfare.
He praised the professionalism and extended heartfelt appreciation to the Air Power Centre of Excellence for its state-of-the-art facilities and instrumental role in orchestrating such a large-scale air exercise.
Asim Munir acknowledged that the Centre's expertise and dedication have contributed to the development of highly skilled and proficient air warriors, who are ready to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
He also admired the dynamic leadership of the Air Chief, whose firm resolve and relentless efforts paved the way for this exercise to be one of the largest aerial exercises in the region.
Acknowledging the ever-changing nature of aerial warfare, he reiterated his commitment to support the vision of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu to incorporate smart inductions, and cutting-edge niche technologies in the domains of cyber, artificial intelligence, IT, space and specialized innovations.
The Air Chief praised COAS's support in the pursuit of PAF's modernization drive and appreciated the participation of 14 allied countries.
Highlighting the significance of the exercise, the Air Chief emphasized that the exercise Indus Shield offers a unique opportunity for participating air forces to showcase their unparalleled skills and operational capabilities.
He commended the dynamic role played by PAF's Airpower Center of Excellence in successfully orchestrating this mega exercise, ensuring meticulous supervision, conduct, analysis and assessment of aerial warfare missions.
He added Centre's state-of-the-art infrastructure and resources have played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of this significant air exercise.
He continued: "The successful execution of an aerial mission requires the effective utilization of all components of combat efficiency, including electronic warfare operations, force multipliers and support elements. These crucial aspects are diligently taught at the Airpower Center of Excellence, creating a cohesive impact on operational capabilities."
Exercise Indus Shield stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Air Force to bolster regional security and foster cooperation among allied nations.
The exercise serves as a platform for enhancing operational capabilities, promoting mutual understanding and advancing the shared goals of peace & stability in addition to showcasing Pakistan Air Force's commitment to secure its skies through innovative and disruptive technologies.