Introduction:
As Pakistan stands steadfast in its commitment to national security, a network of sentinel air bases forms an integral part of the nation’s defense strategy. These bases, scattered strategically across the country, serve as the rock layer of the Pakistan Air Force’s (PAF) operational capabilities. In this article, I delve into the intricacies of these sky fortresses, shedding light on their strategic importance, their role in regional geopolitics, and their contribution to maintaining peace and stability.
Building Real Men: PAF Academy Asghar Khan
Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Risalpur, the PAF Academy Asghar Khan is where young individuals are transformed into the pillars of Pakistan’s air defense. Aspiring cadets undergo rigorous training, both mentally and physically, to emerge as the guardians of the skies. The academy’s legacy, dating back decades, stands as a testament to its role in cultivating leadership, discipline, and unwavering commitment.
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| Primary Flying Training | PAC MFI-17 Super Mushshak |
| Basic Flying Training | Cessna T–37B/C Tweet |
| Advanced Flying Training | Karakoram K-8P |
| PAF Formation Aerobatics Team – Sherdils | Karakoram K-8P |
Geopolitical Significance
Situated along the country’s international borders, PAF Air Bases hold a strategic advantage in the complex arena of geopolitics. These bases are not merely static installations; they are dynamic nodes that have the potential to alter the course of regional security dynamics. The placement of air bases at key locations influences the geopolitical calculus, allowing Pakistan to assert its interests and respond effectively to emerging challenges. Furthermore, these bases serve as tangible symbols of Pakistan’s commitment to its allies and international obligations, thereby shaping foreign policy and alliances.
- Peshawar Air Base: Guarding the northwest, this base holds a pivotal role in maintaining border security and rapid response capability. Assigned to Northern Air Command (NAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 17 AS “Tigers” | F-7PG FT-7PG |
| No. 26 MR “Black Spiders” | PAC/CAC JF-17A/B Thunder Block I/II |
| No. 81 CS “Kangaroos” | SA-319B Alouette III |
- Mushaf Air Base: Situated near the eastern border, this base ensures vigilance and readiness against potential threats. Assigned to Central Air Command (CAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 9 MR “Griffins” | F-16 A/B MLU Block 15 |
| No. 24 EW “Blinders” | Dassault Falcon DA-20F |
| No. 29 MR “Aggressors” (CCS) | F-16 A/B MLU Block 15 |
| Skybolts (CCS) | Mirage IIIEA ROSE-I |
| Fierce Dragons (CCS) | PAC/CAC JF-17A Thunder Block I |
| No. 82 CS “Stallions” | Augusta Westland AW-139 |
- Qadri Air Base (Skardu): Nestled in Skardu’s captivating landscapes, PAF Base Qadri signifies the Pakistan Air Force’s resolute dedication to national security. Initially a Forward Operating Base (FOB), it attained the status of a Main Operating Base (MOB) in 2021, reflecting its upgraded capabilities and strategic importance. Perched at a high altitude, the base’s rotational detachment of units ensures constant vigilance, fortifying the defense of Pakistan’s northern frontiers amidst challenging terrains.
Defense Preparedness
In times of uncertainty, air bases emerge as strongholds of defense preparedness. They form the frontline of Pakistan’s deterrence strategy by ensuring air superiority and readiness to repel any aggression. The aircraft stationed at these bases stand as sentinels, ready to take flight at a moment’s notice. Not only do air bases enable the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to deter potential adversaries, but they also serve as vital support hubs for ground forces during conflicts, enhancing the overall effectiveness of military operations.
- Masroor Air Base (Karachi): Safeguarding the southern flank, this base contributes significantly to maritime security as well. Assigned to Southern Air Command (SAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 2 MR “Minhasians” | PAC/CAC JF-17A Thunder Block I |
| No. 4 AEW&C “Karakoram Eagle” | ZDK-03 AEW&C |
| No. 7 TA “Bandits” | Mirage-IIIEA ROSE-I |
| No. 22 OCU “Ghazis” | Mirage IIIDP/EL/BE/BL |
| No. 84 CS “Dolphins” | Augusta Westland AW-139 |
*No. 8 TA Squadron “Haiders” was also stationed at PAF Masroor with Mirage VPA/2/3s specially dedicated to Maritime Support Role to the Pakistan Navy until late 2022. In December 2022, the PAF number plated 8 Sqn and now the squadron is to be equipped with latest state of the art aircraft like PAC/CAC JF-17A Thunder Block III or Chengdu J-10CE. Nonetheless, the conclusion is not unveiled yet!
- Rafiqui Air Base (Shorkot): Positioned in the heart of Punjab, it plays a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness. Assigned to Central Air Command (CAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 14 MR “Tail Choppers” | PAC/CAC JF-17A Thunder |
| No. 25 TA “ Night Strike Eagle” | Mirage IIIDP
Mirage VEF/DD |
| No. 27 TA “ Zarrars” | Mirage IIIDP
Mirage VEF ROSE-III |
| No. 50 TA “Saf Shikan” | Mirage IIIDA/EA Mirage VDD/RP/PA |
| No. 83 SAR “Kites” | SA-319B Alouette III |
- Minhas Air Base (Kamra): A technological hub, this base supports not only defense but also indigenous aircraft production. Assigned to Northern Air Command (NAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 3 AEW&C “Angels” | Saab 2000/-AEW |
| No. 15 MR “Cobras” | Chengdu J-10CE |
| No. 16 MR “Black Panthers” | PAC/CAC JF-17A/B Thunder (Block I/II/III) |
| No. 87 SAR “Dragonflies” | SA-319B Alouette III Augusta Westland AW-139 |
| No. 1 UAV Flight | NESCOM Burraq GIDS Shahpar/-2 |
| Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra (PAC Kamra) | JF-17 Thunder manufacture MFI-395 manufacture Mirage overhaul F-7 overhaul |
- Bholari Air Base (Jamshoro): Strategically located near the eastern border and meticulously equipped, this airbase stands as a sentinel, contributing to the Pakistan Air Force’s preparedness and response capabilities in an attack. Assigned to Southern Air Command (SAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 18 OCU “Sharp Shooters” | PAC/CAC JF-17B Thunder Block II |
| No. 19 OCU “Sherdils” | F-16 A/B Block 15 ADF |
| No. 53 AEW&C “Hawks” | Saab 2000AEW |
Top of Form
Projection of Power
The ability to project power across borders is a hallmark of a strong and capable military. PAF Air Bases are instrumental in extending the nation’s power projection capabilities. The agility to deploy air assets rapidly to distant areas grants Pakistan the means to respond swiftly to regional crises and contribute to peacekeeping efforts. These bases have, time and again, played a pivotal role in critical moments, shaping the outcome of regional conflicts and showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to stability.
- Shahbaz Air Base (Jacobabad): Positioned to enhance the reach of the PAF, it plays a pivotal role in extending power projection capabilities. Assigned to Southern Air Command (SAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 5 MR “Falcons” | F-16 C/D Block 52 |
| No. 11 MR “Arrows” | F-16 A/B Block 15 |
| No. 88 CS “Rams” | Augusta Westland AW-139 |
- Samungli Air Base (Quetta): Guarding the southwestern frontier, it contributes to rapid response and peacekeeping operations. Assigned to Southern Air Command (SAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 23 AS “Talons” | F-7PG FT-7PG |
| No. 18 MR “Phoenix” | PAC/CAC JF-17A Thunder Block I/II |
| No. 85 CS “Rams” | SA-319B Alouette III |
Airborne Surveillance and Reconnaissance
Behind the scenes, these sky fortresses host a range of aircraft tasked with airborne surveillance and reconnaissance missions. These missions provide real-time intelligence gathering, a vital component of national security. By monitoring borders, tracking movements, and gathering vital information, air bases contribute immensely to the nation’s situational awareness. Their contribution to border surveillance enhances Pakistan’s ability to protect its territorial integrity.
- M.M. Alam Air Base (Mianwali): Named after a national hero, this base undertakes vital reconnaissance missions, bolstering national security. Assigned to Northern Air Command (NAC).
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 1 FCU “Rahbers” | Karakoram K-8P |
| No. 20 OCU “Sharp Shooters” | F-7PG FT-7PG |
| No. 86 SAR “Ababeels” | SA-319B Alouette III |
- Masroor Air Base (Karachi): Safeguarding the southern flank, this base contributes significantly to maritime security as well. Assigned to Southern Air Command (SAC).
*Squadron list discussed above
- Samungli Air Base (Quetta): Playing a key role in border surveillance, enhances situational awareness in the region.
*Squadron list discussed above
Logistical Hub
Pakistan’s air bases are not just operational centers; they also drive technological advancements. Among them are:
- Faisal Air Base (Karachi): This base acts as a hub for technological innovation, fostering collaboration with academia and industry.
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 21 ATS “Burraqs” | Lockheed C-130E Hercules Saab 2000 |
- Nur Khan Air Base (Rawalpindi): This prominent military airbase, named after Air Marshal Nur Khan, stands as a cornerstone of the Pakistan Air Force’s operational capabilities, encompassing advanced facilities and fostering excellence in military aviation.
| SQUADRON DEPLOYED | AIRCRAFT |
| No. 6 ATS “Antelopes” | Lockheed C-130B/E Hercules Lockheed L-100 Hercules |
| No. 10 MRTT “Bulls” | Ilyushin Il-78MP Midas |
| No. 12 VIP “Globe Trotters” | Airbus A319 King Air 350i Cessna Citation Latitude Bombardier Global 5000 Gulfstream G450 |
| No. 41 VLC | Piper PA–34 Seneca Piper PA-46 Harbin Y-12 II |
| No. 52 ATS “Markhors” | CASA/IPTN CN-235M-220 |
Conclusion
In the complex landscape of national security, PAF Air Bases remain the unsung heroes, silently guarding the nation’s skies. Their strategic significance, modernization efforts, and commitment to peace solidify their role as the sentinels of sovereignty. As Pakistan navigates an ever-changing world, these bases stand as a testament to the nation’s dedication to security, stability, and progress.
Author: Muhammad Hamza Bin Yasir
The views expressed by the author do not necessarily represent Global Defense Insight’s editorial policy.
