KARACHI: The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) held a Passing Out Parade at PAF Airmen Academy Korangi Creek on Thursday, marking the successful completion of training for 1,045 trainees from the PAF, Pakistan Navy and allied countries.

Air Vice Marshal Akhtar Imran Saddozai, Air Officer Commanding Southern Air Command, attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Upon arrival, he was received by Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Shahid Afzaal, Air Officer Commanding PAF Airmen Academy Korangi Creek.

Addressing the graduating trainees, Air Vice Marshal Saddozai highlighted the Pakistan Air Force’s reputation as a highly professional and combat-capable force, recognized for its operational excellence and commitment to national defence. He said the academy continues to modernize its training programs in line with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, preparing airmen for the evolving requirements of multi-domain operations and future security challenges.

The chief guest emphasized the importance of jointness among Pakistan’s armed forces, noting that the PAF has consistently worked alongside sister services to safeguard the country’s sovereignty. Referring to the regional security environment, he said the nation places significant trust in the Air Force and assured that the service remains committed to defending Pakistan with the same resolve demonstrated during Marka-e-Haq Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.

He also underscored the growing role of advanced technologies in modern warfare, stating that future conflicts are increasingly shaped by space, cyber and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as unmanned aerial systems and long-range precision platforms. He said the PAF has embraced these developments and continues to strengthen indigenous technological capabilities through initiatives being pursued under the National Aerospace and Technology Parks programme.

During the ceremony, outstanding trainees were recognized for their academic and professional achievements. Aircraftman Muhammad Anas Arshad received the Chief of the Air Staff Trophy for Overall Best Performance. Aircraftman Muhammad Abu Bakar was awarded the Asghar Khan Trophy for Best in Aeronautics, while Aircraftman Mehmood Hassan received the Nur Khan Trophy for Best in Aero Avionics Technology.

The Air Officer Commanding Trophy for Best in General Service Training was awarded to Academy Sergeant Aircraftman Muhammad Arsalan. The Best Performance Trophy for a foreign trainee was presented to Lance Corporal Ezzeldeen Khaled Al-Deik of Jordan.

Congratulating the graduating trainees and their families, the chief guest expressed confidence in their future contributions to their respective services. He also praised the academy’s instructional staff for their dedication and professionalism in training the next generation of military personnel.