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PAF BASE FAISAL
The history of PAF Base Faisal, perhaps the oldest air base in Pakistan, is a rich one since the RAF used it as their primary maintenance base to serve units throughout British India.
Soon after the India Command of the Royal Air Force was formed in 1918, with a projected deployment of 8 squadrons on the subcontinent, an aircraft repair depot was established at Lahore with a detachment at Karachi and a port depot at Bombay. In 1922 the main unit was shifted from Lahore to Drigh Road, where the first commanding officer of what was called 'Aircraft Depot, India', was Wing Commander Charles D Breese, RAF. The change to Karachi was logical because knocked down aircraft could be off loaded from British ships at this closest subcontinental depot, assembled, test flown and ferried away to the squadrons based inland. This was to remain the station's chief function until RAF Drigh Road was handed over to the Royal Pakistan Air Force in 1947.
Early in 1927, among a draft of RAF airmen who arrived from the UK was an AC2 T E Shaw. In 1914, when he was 26 years old, he had been commissioned as an officer in the British Army, and after earning Worldwide fame as 'Lawrence of Arabia' for his expeditions against the Turks, had retired as a lieutenant colonel. Now he was embarking upon a second career, as an ordinary airman recruit in the RAF. From his letters can be gained an authentic description of what Drigh Road was like at that time. He was assigned to the ERS (Engine Repair Shop) and wrote that although there was no hot water, the food was excellent and Karachi City was only 7 miles away. In the evenings he would go out to listen to the music of the camel bells along Drigh Road. He wrote to his mother on 24 February 27 that the camp was "new, stone-built and spacious", and that his job was "to follow the various engines as they pass through the shops, and record what changes and repairs and adjustments each requires". On 24 February 42 the Aircraft Depot was redesigned No 1 (India) Maintenance Unit and on 20 February Group Captain J McFarlane assumed command of the unit. With the entry of the Japanese into WW II, the role of Drigh Road had expanded; it was now the main supply base not only for the RAF in India but also for all the squadrons and units engaged in the Burma and Malaya campaigns. Records show that in the early months of 1942 the greater number of aircraft dispatched by the Maintenance Unit were Hurricane and Mohawk fighters. On 29 June 43, work was started by the North Western Railway Company on a new rail siding in the dispersal area to expedite deliveries of aircraft which arrived by sea in crates, as well as to replenish the bulk fuel tanks. The new sidings were completed on 22 August and a test train was successfully operated. The first Spitfires reached Drigh Road during August 43 and on 4 September, the operations record book (ORB) notes, "Wing Commander R L F Boyd, Air Headquarters Bengal, reported to the unit with 9 other pilots to collect the first consignment of Spitfires. The arrival of these aircraft in India was to prove a decisive factor in the air campaign against the Japanese. On 21 November 43, repaving of the runways with concrete blocks was begun; these were laid at night to avoid any interruption of flying. Among the aircraft types flown by the T&D (Test and Dispatch) flight in December 44 were: Hurricane, Spitfire, Vengeance, Defiant, Harvard, Fairchild, Blenheim, Liberator, Wellington, Moth and Dakota. This reflects the magnitude and variety of work undertaken by the station at that time. In January 44, no fewer than 260 crated aircraft arrived at the Karachi docks to be assembled, test flown and dispatched; and on 2 February the first of the most significant type after the Spitfire, arrived - 2 Republic P-47 Thunderbolts which had been transported from the United States by sea as deck cargo. On 27 April, another 35 P-47s arrived in the same manner; most of the aircraft were towed to the unit along a desert track. During June 44, RAF Drigh Road accepted 111 aircraft after tests, and 109 of these were dispatched; there were 426 test flights. The ORB for December recorded that "the year 1944 finished up with 1,660 aircraft having been dispatched from this unit". On 10 March 45 Group Captain N C S Rutter left Drigh Road for Bombay prior to embarkation for the UK on repatriation: he had commanded the station since December 42. The previous day Wing Commander A Hauglin had assumed temporary command pending the arrival of the new station commander, Group Captain C E Williamson Jones, DFC. In that month, 2 new types of aircraft were flown from the T&D Flight - 4 experimental P-51 Mustangs and a complement of Spitfire XIVs. The assembly of Spitfire XIVs was begun and the first Mustang passed to the servicing flight. At 1500 hours on 8 May 45 the station commander announced the news that the war in Europe was over. On 18 June 45 the new east-west runway 26 was opened. The airfield was now taking all reinforcement aircraft flown into India. No 202 Staging Post moved in from Mauripur. At the end of that month some Tempest mainplanes were received and on 10 August the assembly of the first Tempest II was completed. On 15 August the station commander announced the cessation of hostilities in the Far East. To celebrate the end of the war against the Japanese the station remained closed from 16 August until 0830 hours on the 18th. In its entry for 19 January 46, the Drigh Road Operations Record Book said: "A small number of airmen expressed their dissatisfaction with service conditions and the slow pace of demobilization by means of a small demonstration. Not more than 250 men were involved who, after being addressed by the CO, returned to their normal duties. On the 21st, Air Commodore A L Freebody, AOC 226 Group paid a flying visit from Delhi and addressed the men. Conditions had now returned to normal and continued so until the end of the month. On 21 February, however, a mutiny in the Royal Indian Navy which had broken out in Bombay spread to Karachi; on the following day the majority of Indian airmen on the station refused to go on parade in the morning as a gesture of sympathy with the RIN mutineers". With the termination of British rule on 14 August 47, and the creation of India and Pakistan with their separate armed services, Drigh Road was handed over to the Royal Pakistan Air Force with effect from 30 October 47 - after having been a Royal Air Force station for twenty five years, having supported RAF operations on the northwest frontier in the 1920s and 30s and the Allied air offensive against the Japanese in World War If. In October 47, Group Captain S C Elworthy, RAF, took over as the first commanding officer of RPAF Drigh Road. After his return to the RAF in the years to come he would rise first to become Chief of the Air Staff of the RAF and later Chairman of Britain's joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Defence Staff. Also in October 47, a colour hoisting parade was held in front of the station headquarters and the Pakistan flag was hoisted at the air base for the first time. Technical Training School (TTS) and Recruits Training School (RTS) were the first RPAF units to be established at the stations: these subsequently moved to Lahore and Kohat respectively. In December 47, a contingent of 100 selected trainees, commanded by Squadron Leader Omar, took part in a combined services parade held at the Karachi polo ground; the Quaid-e-Azam took the salute. Present behind him on the dais were Admiral Jefford of the navy, Major General Akbar Khan of the army and Group Captain S.C.Elworthy of the air force. On 15th August 1950, an air display was held in aid of the RPAF benevolent fund. Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, after reviewing the squadrons, addressed the officers and men of the RPAF, telling them that he was glad to record that not only expansion of the forces but a very great advance in technical efficiency had also been made. About 150,000 people witnessed the air display (the first of its kind in the capital) described by experts as a demonstration of the highest order; precision bombing, rocketry and supply dropping were highly appreciated. The spectators were amazed to see Bristol Freighters disgorging their 28,000 lbs. of supplies, including 3 jeeps and 30 soldiers each, in less than three minutes. The best item on the programme was an aerobatics display in a Fury fighter Piloted by Flight Lieutenant F S Hussain. An unfortunate incident during the same display was a crash in which Pilot Officer Akther Hussain lost his life. At about this time, the foundations were laid for the growth of major units of the future like 101 Maintenance Unit (101 M U) and 102 Maintenance Unit (102 M U ). Simultaneously efforts were being made to make the people, especially the youth of Karachi air minded. A University Air Squadron was formed and air displays were held regularly. The first Pakistani jet fighter squadron (No 11) equipped with Attackers was established at this station in 1951 and continued to be based here till 1956. Jet aircraft from America started arriving in early 1955, T-33s being the first. The defence minister, General Muhammad Ayub Khan and the C-in-C RPAF visited the station on 6 May 55 and inspected the T-33 trainers as well as No 11 Squadron which was commanded by Squadron Leader F S Hussain. The first PAF investiture ceremony after the introduction of Pakistani awards was held at Drigh Road on 13 November 59. Ten days later, another historic event took place: a B-57 aircraft piloted by the C-in-C PAF, Air Marshall Asghar Khan landed at Drigh Road for the first time.
The history of PAF Base Faisal, perhaps the oldest air base in Pakistan, is a rich one since the RAF used it as their primary maintenance base to serve units throughout British India.
Soon after the India Command of the Royal Air Force was formed in 1918, with a projected deployment of 8 squadrons on the subcontinent, an aircraft repair depot was established at Lahore with a detachment at Karachi and a port depot at Bombay. In 1922 the main unit was shifted from Lahore to Drigh Road, where the first commanding officer of what was called 'Aircraft Depot, India', was Wing Commander Charles D Breese, RAF. The change to Karachi was logical because knocked down aircraft could be off loaded from British ships at this closest subcontinental depot, assembled, test flown and ferried away to the squadrons based inland. This was to remain the station's chief function until RAF Drigh Road was handed over to the Royal Pakistan Air Force in 1947.
Early in 1927, among a draft of RAF airmen who arrived from the UK was an AC2 T E Shaw. In 1914, when he was 26 years old, he had been commissioned as an officer in the British Army, and after earning Worldwide fame as 'Lawrence of Arabia' for his expeditions against the Turks, had retired as a lieutenant colonel. Now he was embarking upon a second career, as an ordinary airman recruit in the RAF. From his letters can be gained an authentic description of what Drigh Road was like at that time. He was assigned to the ERS (Engine Repair Shop) and wrote that although there was no hot water, the food was excellent and Karachi City was only 7 miles away. In the evenings he would go out to listen to the music of the camel bells along Drigh Road. He wrote to his mother on 24 February 27 that the camp was "new, stone-built and spacious", and that his job was "to follow the various engines as they pass through the shops, and record what changes and repairs and adjustments each requires". On 24 February 42 the Aircraft Depot was redesigned No 1 (India) Maintenance Unit and on 20 February Group Captain J McFarlane assumed command of the unit. With the entry of the Japanese into WW II, the role of Drigh Road had expanded; it was now the main supply base not only for the RAF in India but also for all the squadrons and units engaged in the Burma and Malaya campaigns. Records show that in the early months of 1942 the greater number of aircraft dispatched by the Maintenance Unit were Hurricane and Mohawk fighters. On 29 June 43, work was started by the North Western Railway Company on a new rail siding in the dispersal area to expedite deliveries of aircraft which arrived by sea in crates, as well as to replenish the bulk fuel tanks. The new sidings were completed on 22 August and a test train was successfully operated. The first Spitfires reached Drigh Road during August 43 and on 4 September, the operations record book (ORB) notes, "Wing Commander R L F Boyd, Air Headquarters Bengal, reported to the unit with 9 other pilots to collect the first consignment of Spitfires. The arrival of these aircraft in India was to prove a decisive factor in the air campaign against the Japanese. On 21 November 43, repaving of the runways with concrete blocks was begun; these were laid at night to avoid any interruption of flying. Among the aircraft types flown by the T&D (Test and Dispatch) flight in December 44 were: Hurricane, Spitfire, Vengeance, Defiant, Harvard, Fairchild, Blenheim, Liberator, Wellington, Moth and Dakota. This reflects the magnitude and variety of work undertaken by the station at that time. In January 44, no fewer than 260 crated aircraft arrived at the Karachi docks to be assembled, test flown and dispatched; and on 2 February the first of the most significant type after the Spitfire, arrived - 2 Republic P-47 Thunderbolts which had been transported from the United States by sea as deck cargo. On 27 April, another 35 P-47s arrived in the same manner; most of the aircraft were towed to the unit along a desert track. During June 44, RAF Drigh Road accepted 111 aircraft after tests, and 109 of these were dispatched; there were 426 test flights. The ORB for December recorded that "the year 1944 finished up with 1,660 aircraft having been dispatched from this unit". On 10 March 45 Group Captain N C S Rutter left Drigh Road for Bombay prior to embarkation for the UK on repatriation: he had commanded the station since December 42. The previous day Wing Commander A Hauglin had assumed temporary command pending the arrival of the new station commander, Group Captain C E Williamson Jones, DFC. In that month, 2 new types of aircraft were flown from the T&D Flight - 4 experimental P-51 Mustangs and a complement of Spitfire XIVs. The assembly of Spitfire XIVs was begun and the first Mustang passed to the servicing flight. At 1500 hours on 8 May 45 the station commander announced the news that the war in Europe was over. On 18 June 45 the new east-west runway 26 was opened. The airfield was now taking all reinforcement aircraft flown into India. No 202 Staging Post moved in from Mauripur. At the end of that month some Tempest mainplanes were received and on 10 August the assembly of the first Tempest II was completed. On 15 August the station commander announced the cessation of hostilities in the Far East. To celebrate the end of the war against the Japanese the station remained closed from 16 August until 0830 hours on the 18th. In its entry for 19 January 46, the Drigh Road Operations Record Book said: "A small number of airmen expressed their dissatisfaction with service conditions and the slow pace of demobilization by means of a small demonstration. Not more than 250 men were involved who, after being addressed by the CO, returned to their normal duties. On the 21st, Air Commodore A L Freebody, AOC 226 Group paid a flying visit from Delhi and addressed the men. Conditions had now returned to normal and continued so until the end of the month. On 21 February, however, a mutiny in the Royal Indian Navy which had broken out in Bombay spread to Karachi; on the following day the majority of Indian airmen on the station refused to go on parade in the morning as a gesture of sympathy with the RIN mutineers". With the termination of British rule on 14 August 47, and the creation of India and Pakistan with their separate armed services, Drigh Road was handed over to the Royal Pakistan Air Force with effect from 30 October 47 - after having been a Royal Air Force station for twenty five years, having supported RAF operations on the northwest frontier in the 1920s and 30s and the Allied air offensive against the Japanese in World War If. In October 47, Group Captain S C Elworthy, RAF, took over as the first commanding officer of RPAF Drigh Road. After his return to the RAF in the years to come he would rise first to become Chief of the Air Staff of the RAF and later Chairman of Britain's joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Defence Staff. Also in October 47, a colour hoisting parade was held in front of the station headquarters and the Pakistan flag was hoisted at the air base for the first time. Technical Training School (TTS) and Recruits Training School (RTS) were the first RPAF units to be established at the stations: these subsequently moved to Lahore and Kohat respectively. In December 47, a contingent of 100 selected trainees, commanded by Squadron Leader Omar, took part in a combined services parade held at the Karachi polo ground; the Quaid-e-Azam took the salute. Present behind him on the dais were Admiral Jefford of the navy, Major General Akbar Khan of the army and Group Captain S.C.Elworthy of the air force. On 15th August 1950, an air display was held in aid of the RPAF benevolent fund. Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan, after reviewing the squadrons, addressed the officers and men of the RPAF, telling them that he was glad to record that not only expansion of the forces but a very great advance in technical efficiency had also been made. About 150,000 people witnessed the air display (the first of its kind in the capital) described by experts as a demonstration of the highest order; precision bombing, rocketry and supply dropping were highly appreciated. The spectators were amazed to see Bristol Freighters disgorging their 28,000 lbs. of supplies, including 3 jeeps and 30 soldiers each, in less than three minutes. The best item on the programme was an aerobatics display in a Fury fighter Piloted by Flight Lieutenant F S Hussain. An unfortunate incident during the same display was a crash in which Pilot Officer Akther Hussain lost his life. At about this time, the foundations were laid for the growth of major units of the future like 101 Maintenance Unit (101 M U) and 102 Maintenance Unit (102 M U ). Simultaneously efforts were being made to make the people, especially the youth of Karachi air minded. A University Air Squadron was formed and air displays were held regularly. The first Pakistani jet fighter squadron (No 11) equipped with Attackers was established at this station in 1951 and continued to be based here till 1956. Jet aircraft from America started arriving in early 1955, T-33s being the first. The defence minister, General Muhammad Ayub Khan and the C-in-C RPAF visited the station on 6 May 55 and inspected the T-33 trainers as well as No 11 Squadron which was commanded by Squadron Leader F S Hussain. The first PAF investiture ceremony after the introduction of Pakistani awards was held at Drigh Road on 13 November 59. Ten days later, another historic event took place: a B-57 aircraft piloted by the C-in-C PAF, Air Marshall Asghar Khan landed at Drigh Road for the first time.
PAF BASE MASROOR
PAF Masroor, the largest and one of the premier air bases of the Pakistan Air Force derived its original name - Mauripur - from a small village near this coastal airfield. It was established during WW II in 1940-41 as a temporary staging post and air transport base for the US Air Corps;the facilities of the staging post were extensively utilized by the Allies. By 1945, the Royal Air Force had taken over the base as a strategic link for India and the Far East. After the creation of Pakistan, the RAF remained a joint user of Mauripur together with the RPAF upto 1955; a transit camp was set up to handle all movement of RAF personnel to and from Pakistan. The RPAF Station Mauripur was established on 1st January 1948 with Wing Commander Zaheer Ahmed as the station commander. In 1948, about a year after the birth of the Royal Pakistan Air Force, Air Headquarters moved from Peshawar to Mauripur. Thus in the early days of the RPAF, Mauripur contributed significantly in giving shape to the newly born air force.
Its primary role was to administer No.6 Transport Squadron. All the officers and men, were veterans of WW II and their rich experience helped to evolve sound flying practices, high standards of maintenance and good traditions with regard to customs of service and social life in the messes. For the first two decades Mauripur remained the nucleus of advance flying training as well as an operational base and an administrative cente. The station had the proud distinction of receiving Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on 13th August 1947. On 11th September, the last journey of the father of the nation from Quetta to his eternal abode also staged through Mauripur.
In 1967, Air Commodore Masroor Hosain, a brilliant officer of the PAF who was then the base commander of Mauripur, was killed in a tragic bird strike accident during an operational exercise, in a B-57 he was flying in the vicinity of Karachi: subsequently the base was named after him.
In one of its early roles, Mauripur was required to provide air support and protection to the Pakistan Navy, by undertaking coastal surveillance in SA-16 Albatross aircraft.
The proximity of the base to the Karachi port and to important sea routes of the Arabian sea makes it, strategically, a very important base. It is entrusted with the air defence of the southern air space of Pakistan. The base provides air protection and support to Pakistan Army and, in conjunction with Pakistan Navy, it defends the coastal areas of Pakistan. It also has a number of satellite bases in Baluchistan and Sind.
In December 45, a Royal Indian Air Force Dakota of No 12 Squadron was positioned at Mauripur and by March 46 the entire squadron had been shifted to this base. In 1947, No 6 Squadron of the RPAF was formed at Mauripur with several additional Dakotas fresh from overhaul at the Hindustan Aeronautical Factory in Bangalore. No 6 Squadron carried out intensive missions in support of own troops in Kashmir and the northern areas in 1948 and 49.
The modern era of PAF Base Masroor, as a multipurpose fighter base, started with the establishment of No. 32 Fighter Ground Attack Wing in August 56, equipped with F-86 jet fighters. In 1960, Nos 7 and 8 Squadrons constituting 31 Wing were formed with American B-57 light bomber aircraft. This aircraft is still being operated from PAF Base Masroor along with a number of other combat aircraft.
The maintenance wing of the base had the unique privilege of servicing the Vickers Viking aircraft of the Quaid-e-Azam after independence. Since then, the base has grown steadily in man-power and size and also in its ability to absorb new systems and technology. In 1956, with the induction of American weapon systems, technical know-how started to develop for modern aircraft like F-86, T-33 and B-57. Over the years a wide range of facilities were installed including jet engine, aircraft structural and radar shops.
Masroor also house's a number of important lodger units such as the Central Medical Board, Aero-Medical Institute, Institute of Flight Safety, Office of the Deputy Controller of Accounts Air Force, PAF Press and Air Tactical Support School.
During the 65 and 71 wars, the squadrons from this base fought with exemplary determination and the pilots displayed outstanding courage and leadership. Mauripur has also had the honor of winning the highest gallantry award, the Nishan-e-Haider, posthumously conferred on Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas in 1971. Three of Masroor’s base commanders Group Captains Nur Khan and Rahim Khan and Air Commodore Anwar Shamim rose to the command of the PAF. Two other Chiefs, Air Marshal Zafar Chaudhry and Air Chief Marshal ZuIfiqar Ali Khan were officers commanding of 32 Fighter Ground Attack Wing located at the base. Upon the creation of Pakistan, Mauripur with its sprawling complex was a veritable thorough-fare. A refugee colony existed within the camp area. The USAF's Military Air Transport Services used to make regular stops here. A missionary school was functioning here since the early 40s; the present PAF Intermediate College now stands at the same site. There was no barbed wire along the perimeter of the base. In course of time, all these security hazards had been removed one by one and before the 65 war the premises of the base had been made fully secure.
With concerted efforts by all concerned, the social life at Masroor has been so organized over the years as to make the base a small, well equipped, and self supporting town. The Markaz-e-Mujahidda run by the Masroor branch of PAFWA renders valuable services to the families of air-men. Several sports fields, a nine-hole golf course and a gymnasium with modern facilities help to keep its men fit. A PAF Intermediate College and 5 secondary and primary schools established by the Government of Sind cater to the educational requirements of the children of PAF personnel and civilians from the adjoining areas. There are 12 mosques in various camps, out of which 2 are newly constructed and have all the modern amenities.
PAF Base Masroor, by virtue of its strategic location, will always play a vital role in the air defence of southern and coastal regions of Pakistan. The base has the necessary infrastructure for the deployment and operation of any modern weapon system and the potentialities of growth and development to meet any future requirements.
PAF Masroor, the largest and one of the premier air bases of the Pakistan Air Force derived its original name - Mauripur - from a small village near this coastal airfield. It was established during WW II in 1940-41 as a temporary staging post and air transport base for the US Air Corps;the facilities of the staging post were extensively utilized by the Allies. By 1945, the Royal Air Force had taken over the base as a strategic link for India and the Far East. After the creation of Pakistan, the RAF remained a joint user of Mauripur together with the RPAF upto 1955; a transit camp was set up to handle all movement of RAF personnel to and from Pakistan. The RPAF Station Mauripur was established on 1st January 1948 with Wing Commander Zaheer Ahmed as the station commander. In 1948, about a year after the birth of the Royal Pakistan Air Force, Air Headquarters moved from Peshawar to Mauripur. Thus in the early days of the RPAF, Mauripur contributed significantly in giving shape to the newly born air force.
Its primary role was to administer No.6 Transport Squadron. All the officers and men, were veterans of WW II and their rich experience helped to evolve sound flying practices, high standards of maintenance and good traditions with regard to customs of service and social life in the messes. For the first two decades Mauripur remained the nucleus of advance flying training as well as an operational base and an administrative cente. The station had the proud distinction of receiving Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on 13th August 1947. On 11th September, the last journey of the father of the nation from Quetta to his eternal abode also staged through Mauripur.
In 1967, Air Commodore Masroor Hosain, a brilliant officer of the PAF who was then the base commander of Mauripur, was killed in a tragic bird strike accident during an operational exercise, in a B-57 he was flying in the vicinity of Karachi: subsequently the base was named after him.
In one of its early roles, Mauripur was required to provide air support and protection to the Pakistan Navy, by undertaking coastal surveillance in SA-16 Albatross aircraft.
The proximity of the base to the Karachi port and to important sea routes of the Arabian sea makes it, strategically, a very important base. It is entrusted with the air defence of the southern air space of Pakistan. The base provides air protection and support to Pakistan Army and, in conjunction with Pakistan Navy, it defends the coastal areas of Pakistan. It also has a number of satellite bases in Baluchistan and Sind.
In December 45, a Royal Indian Air Force Dakota of No 12 Squadron was positioned at Mauripur and by March 46 the entire squadron had been shifted to this base. In 1947, No 6 Squadron of the RPAF was formed at Mauripur with several additional Dakotas fresh from overhaul at the Hindustan Aeronautical Factory in Bangalore. No 6 Squadron carried out intensive missions in support of own troops in Kashmir and the northern areas in 1948 and 49.
The modern era of PAF Base Masroor, as a multipurpose fighter base, started with the establishment of No. 32 Fighter Ground Attack Wing in August 56, equipped with F-86 jet fighters. In 1960, Nos 7 and 8 Squadrons constituting 31 Wing were formed with American B-57 light bomber aircraft. This aircraft is still being operated from PAF Base Masroor along with a number of other combat aircraft.
The maintenance wing of the base had the unique privilege of servicing the Vickers Viking aircraft of the Quaid-e-Azam after independence. Since then, the base has grown steadily in man-power and size and also in its ability to absorb new systems and technology. In 1956, with the induction of American weapon systems, technical know-how started to develop for modern aircraft like F-86, T-33 and B-57. Over the years a wide range of facilities were installed including jet engine, aircraft structural and radar shops.
Masroor also house's a number of important lodger units such as the Central Medical Board, Aero-Medical Institute, Institute of Flight Safety, Office of the Deputy Controller of Accounts Air Force, PAF Press and Air Tactical Support School.
During the 65 and 71 wars, the squadrons from this base fought with exemplary determination and the pilots displayed outstanding courage and leadership. Mauripur has also had the honor of winning the highest gallantry award, the Nishan-e-Haider, posthumously conferred on Pilot Officer Rashid Minhas in 1971. Three of Masroor’s base commanders Group Captains Nur Khan and Rahim Khan and Air Commodore Anwar Shamim rose to the command of the PAF. Two other Chiefs, Air Marshal Zafar Chaudhry and Air Chief Marshal ZuIfiqar Ali Khan were officers commanding of 32 Fighter Ground Attack Wing located at the base. Upon the creation of Pakistan, Mauripur with its sprawling complex was a veritable thorough-fare. A refugee colony existed within the camp area. The USAF's Military Air Transport Services used to make regular stops here. A missionary school was functioning here since the early 40s; the present PAF Intermediate College now stands at the same site. There was no barbed wire along the perimeter of the base. In course of time, all these security hazards had been removed one by one and before the 65 war the premises of the base had been made fully secure.
With concerted efforts by all concerned, the social life at Masroor has been so organized over the years as to make the base a small, well equipped, and self supporting town. The Markaz-e-Mujahidda run by the Masroor branch of PAFWA renders valuable services to the families of air-men. Several sports fields, a nine-hole golf course and a gymnasium with modern facilities help to keep its men fit. A PAF Intermediate College and 5 secondary and primary schools established by the Government of Sind cater to the educational requirements of the children of PAF personnel and civilians from the adjoining areas. There are 12 mosques in various camps, out of which 2 are newly constructed and have all the modern amenities.
PAF Base Masroor, by virtue of its strategic location, will always play a vital role in the air defence of southern and coastal regions of Pakistan. The base has the necessary infrastructure for the deployment and operation of any modern weapon system and the potentialities of growth and development to meet any future requirements.
PAF BASE MALIR
Soon after independence, a signals and radar school was established in 1948 on the premises of an abandoned WW II airfield on the outskirts of Karachi, called Malir after a neighboring village. The school was to train all future radio and radar technicians of the PAF. The instructional staff was provided by a British company, International Air Radio Ltd (IAL). In 1949 PAF Malir was raised to station status, Squadron Leader A Salaam Butt being the first station commander. Offices of the station headquarters were housed in the building now occupied by PAF Model School.
The initial role of the station was to exercise administrative and supervisory control over the training activities of the Signals and Radar School, which was later to be called School of Electronics (SOE). The following year, a maintenance depot was also raised at the base with its administrative control vested in the station commander. A facility to train signals officers at Malir was added in 1957, and Pakistani officers and SNCOs took over the entire training task of the school from the IAL staff in 1959. In 1963 the SOE moved out to nearby Korangi Creek air base to join its sister institution the School of Aeronautics.
Immediately after 1965, a ground combateer wing was established and placed under the administrative control of PAF Station Malir; in subsequent years 8 new units were located there. The present role of the base is to keep all its lodger units in a high state of preparedness for their wartime roles. During both the 65 and 71 wars, the air base fully met or exceeded its assigned commitments, and supported its field units by efficiently organizing several logistic points throughout the country.
The first Aero-modeling club in the PAF was established by Flight Lieutenant S R H Naqvi at the Signals and Radar School in 1953. The club was inaugurated by Air Vice Marshal L W Cannon, the C-in-C PAF.
From the early-70s to date, the base has assumed additional responsibilities for training and maintaining the PAF's mobile elements in a high state of readiness. The base has grown substantially during recent years and the small village of Malir is now a fast expanding township.
Soon after independence, a signals and radar school was established in 1948 on the premises of an abandoned WW II airfield on the outskirts of Karachi, called Malir after a neighboring village. The school was to train all future radio and radar technicians of the PAF. The instructional staff was provided by a British company, International Air Radio Ltd (IAL). In 1949 PAF Malir was raised to station status, Squadron Leader A Salaam Butt being the first station commander. Offices of the station headquarters were housed in the building now occupied by PAF Model School.
The initial role of the station was to exercise administrative and supervisory control over the training activities of the Signals and Radar School, which was later to be called School of Electronics (SOE). The following year, a maintenance depot was also raised at the base with its administrative control vested in the station commander. A facility to train signals officers at Malir was added in 1957, and Pakistani officers and SNCOs took over the entire training task of the school from the IAL staff in 1959. In 1963 the SOE moved out to nearby Korangi Creek air base to join its sister institution the School of Aeronautics.
Immediately after 1965, a ground combateer wing was established and placed under the administrative control of PAF Station Malir; in subsequent years 8 new units were located there. The present role of the base is to keep all its lodger units in a high state of preparedness for their wartime roles. During both the 65 and 71 wars, the air base fully met or exceeded its assigned commitments, and supported its field units by efficiently organizing several logistic points throughout the country.
The first Aero-modeling club in the PAF was established by Flight Lieutenant S R H Naqvi at the Signals and Radar School in 1953. The club was inaugurated by Air Vice Marshal L W Cannon, the C-in-C PAF.
From the early-70s to date, the base has assumed additional responsibilities for training and maintaining the PAF's mobile elements in a high state of readiness. The base has grown substantially during recent years and the small village of Malir is now a fast expanding township.
PAF BASE PESHWAR
From 1922 to 1940 Royal Air Force Station Peshawar housed 4 RAF squadrons: Nos 5, 20, 28 and 31. The station provided close support to army units which included the Nowshera Brigade and other field regiments in the North West Frontier. In March 37, A Flight of No 1 IAF Squadron also moved to Peshawar, for active duties in the frontier area. No 27 IAF Squadron moved to Peshawar for conversion on to Vultee Vengeance dive-bombers.
In October 47 RPAF Station Peshawar, with Wing Commander E Nazirullah as its first station commander, had under its command Nos 5 and 9 RPAF Squadrons, and No 1 AOP Flight. Besides conversion training, the squadrons conducted extensive armament training, including rocket firing and air to ground gunnery. Major Morris was in command of 1 AOP Flight which was being used for intercommunication and reccee duties in connection with the movement of refugees and also in its basic Air OP role. The station meteorological section provided forecasting service for the operations staff at Chaklala and Risalpur as well.
In December 48, a fighter-bomber wing was formed at Peshawar and a year later Fury aircraft replaced the Tempests in the squadrons. In February 1958, Nos 11 and 15 Squadrons, equipped with F-86F aircraft, moved to Peshawar from Masroor and were joined soon by No 20 Squadron flying RT-33As. On 10 April 59, an Indian Air Force Canberra entered Pakistani air space, and 2 F-86s of 15 Squadron were scrambled from Peshawar; their successful 'first' is described in the chapter 'Eid Mubarak'.
A very important step towards safety was taken at Peshawar on 15 May 58 when an arrester barrier was installed on runway 35. A massive air display was held on 27 October 64, in which 44 F-86s, 16 B-57s and 10 F-104s from Mauripur and Sargodha took part. It was a demonstration of the air force's new aircraft inventory and attracted large crowds at the Jamrud range. Wing Commander Amanullah Khan and Group Captain Mian Sadruddin were the officers commanding Peshawar during the 65 and 71 wars respectively. The base performed commendably through both operations. It was from Peshawar that 19 Squadron mounted their spectacular strike on Pathankot.
No 26 Squadron, one of the units earlier based at Peshawar, was reequipped with A-5 III aircraft on 20 June 84. Air Chief Marshal M Anwar Shamim, Chief of the Air Staff, presided over the reequipment ceremony.
PAF Base Peshawar's significance as a strategically vital airfield has not diminished. It continues to undertake important border air defence operations necessitated since the 1979 Soviet of Afghanistan. The officers' mess has lost none of its nostalgic charm for PAF veterans and its tennis courts continue to host the premier national class championships each year. The Peshawar Golf Course, PAF's prized possession and boasting some of the country's best fairways, is proudly managed by the Peshawer base
From 1922 to 1940 Royal Air Force Station Peshawar housed 4 RAF squadrons: Nos 5, 20, 28 and 31. The station provided close support to army units which included the Nowshera Brigade and other field regiments in the North West Frontier. In March 37, A Flight of No 1 IAF Squadron also moved to Peshawar, for active duties in the frontier area. No 27 IAF Squadron moved to Peshawar for conversion on to Vultee Vengeance dive-bombers.
In October 47 RPAF Station Peshawar, with Wing Commander E Nazirullah as its first station commander, had under its command Nos 5 and 9 RPAF Squadrons, and No 1 AOP Flight. Besides conversion training, the squadrons conducted extensive armament training, including rocket firing and air to ground gunnery. Major Morris was in command of 1 AOP Flight which was being used for intercommunication and reccee duties in connection with the movement of refugees and also in its basic Air OP role. The station meteorological section provided forecasting service for the operations staff at Chaklala and Risalpur as well.
In December 48, a fighter-bomber wing was formed at Peshawar and a year later Fury aircraft replaced the Tempests in the squadrons. In February 1958, Nos 11 and 15 Squadrons, equipped with F-86F aircraft, moved to Peshawar from Masroor and were joined soon by No 20 Squadron flying RT-33As. On 10 April 59, an Indian Air Force Canberra entered Pakistani air space, and 2 F-86s of 15 Squadron were scrambled from Peshawar; their successful 'first' is described in the chapter 'Eid Mubarak'.
A very important step towards safety was taken at Peshawar on 15 May 58 when an arrester barrier was installed on runway 35. A massive air display was held on 27 October 64, in which 44 F-86s, 16 B-57s and 10 F-104s from Mauripur and Sargodha took part. It was a demonstration of the air force's new aircraft inventory and attracted large crowds at the Jamrud range. Wing Commander Amanullah Khan and Group Captain Mian Sadruddin were the officers commanding Peshawar during the 65 and 71 wars respectively. The base performed commendably through both operations. It was from Peshawar that 19 Squadron mounted their spectacular strike on Pathankot.
No 26 Squadron, one of the units earlier based at Peshawar, was reequipped with A-5 III aircraft on 20 June 84. Air Chief Marshal M Anwar Shamim, Chief of the Air Staff, presided over the reequipment ceremony.
PAF Base Peshawar's significance as a strategically vital airfield has not diminished. It continues to undertake important border air defence operations necessitated since the 1979 Soviet of Afghanistan. The officers' mess has lost none of its nostalgic charm for PAF veterans and its tennis courts continue to host the premier national class championships each year. The Peshawar Golf Course, PAF's prized possession and boasting some of the country's best fairways, is proudly managed by the Peshawer base
PAFBASE SARGODHA
The history of PAF Base, Sargodha can be traced back to July 51, when the disused WW II airfield was first occupied by a PAF Care and Maintenance Party. With this, the first step had been taken and by 16th November 1959, all the infrastructure had been completed under the supervision of Wing Commander R D Rollo to make Sargodha ready to receive its first flying squadrons.
Group Captain Salahuddin was posted in November 59 as the first commanding officer of PAF Station Sargodha. Over the next five months, by April 60, Nos. 5, 11 and 16 Squadrons equipped with F-86F aircraft, had been positioned at this base.They comprised No. 33 Wing.
As planned by Air Marshal Asghar Khan, Sargodha developed rapidly to become the most important base in the central region of the country and was geared to undertake the whole range of operational missions. In September 1961, No. 9 Squadron was also moved to Sargodha from Kohat and reequipped with the newly inducted F-104s, the PAF's first Mach 2 fighters. In the 1965 War, Sargodha proved to be the most important PAF base and played a decisive role in the defence of Pakistan with its spectacular performance under Group Captain Zafar Masud. Soon after that war, Chinese F-6s joined the PAF inventory and again Sargodha Base was the first to receive these aircraft. This event was closely followed by yet another induction, the French Mirage-III, which replaced 5 Squadron's Sabres.
Adhering to a well conceived layout, Sargodha Air Base has, continually improved with time in both its residential and operational facilities. Sensitive installations are well dispersed and a complex network of several taxiways and runways is routinely in operation at the same time. In' 1971, the clouds of war gathered over the subcontinent once again and culminated in another conflict between Pakistan and India in December. As in 1965, Sargodha base came through this fierce duel also with flying colours. After the war, Sargodha continued to set the pace of modernization across the entire spectrum of operational, maintenance and logistic disciplines in the Air Force. One of the most important events during this period was the formation of the Combat Commander's School in 1976, the successor to PAF's Fighter Leaders' School.
Another exciting chapter was added to the history of Sargodha base when, on 29th January 83, No. 11 Squadron became the first to receive the new F-16 Fighting Falcons. In March 1984, No. 9 Squadron was also reequipped with F-16s and moved to Sargodha. These two Fighting Falcon squadrons together constituted a flying wing which was designated as No. 38 Wing on 31st October 1984. In the wake of these developments, certain other changes also took place involving the move of No. 5 Squadron, 25 OCU and 33 Wing out of Sargodha. On 17th May 1986, a 38 Wing aircraft became the first PAF F-16 to score a kill when its pilot shot down an intruding Su-7 fighter of the Afghan Air Force. The air base continues to bristle with activity in several other fields including air defence, logistics and that of the nearby Headquarters of PAF's Central Air Command.
Compared with just 1 officer and approximately 25 airmen who manned Sargodha in its embryonic stage, the present strength of the base and its peacetime lodger units is more than impressive. Sargodha also provides administrative support to the pre-Academy PAF College which started as RPAF Public School in 1952 and now performs the role of an inter-services cadet training institution which it runs a two year university course for students belonging to the army, navy and air force.
Sprawling over several hundred acres of lush green soil, Sargodha air base has excellent technical and domestic accommodation, colleges and schools, a large and well equipped hospital, sports grounds, a golf course and free hunting facilities and a reward - for killing the exceptionally tough wild boars which inhabit the area surrounding the airfield.
Inspiring episodes of sacrifice, patriotism and sense of duty displayed by the men of this base during the 1965 and 1971 Wars with India have earned the respect and admiration of the entire PAF, the people of Sargodha, those of the nearby villages and indeed the whole country. Sargodha is justifiably proud of its nationwide fame as the City of the Shaheens and is, till now, one of only 3 cities of Pakistan to be awarded the Hilal-e-Istiqlal which flutters proudly over the municipal hall. Wartime pilots of this air base have been awarded 2 Hilal-e-Juraats and several Sitara-e-Juraats for intrepidity of the highest order.
Taxiing out to their different runways each morning for take off, today's young pilots of Sargodha can strongly feel the presence of there departed warrior comrades of long ago who operated from the very same airfield: Sarfraz Rafiqui, Alauddin Ahmed, Muniruddin, Yunus Hussain and others. Then, as if to remind them of their privileged lineage, their eyes catch the simply lettered words on boards along the taxiway: RETURN WITH HONOUR
The history of PAF Base, Sargodha can be traced back to July 51, when the disused WW II airfield was first occupied by a PAF Care and Maintenance Party. With this, the first step had been taken and by 16th November 1959, all the infrastructure had been completed under the supervision of Wing Commander R D Rollo to make Sargodha ready to receive its first flying squadrons.
Group Captain Salahuddin was posted in November 59 as the first commanding officer of PAF Station Sargodha. Over the next five months, by April 60, Nos. 5, 11 and 16 Squadrons equipped with F-86F aircraft, had been positioned at this base.They comprised No. 33 Wing.
As planned by Air Marshal Asghar Khan, Sargodha developed rapidly to become the most important base in the central region of the country and was geared to undertake the whole range of operational missions. In September 1961, No. 9 Squadron was also moved to Sargodha from Kohat and reequipped with the newly inducted F-104s, the PAF's first Mach 2 fighters. In the 1965 War, Sargodha proved to be the most important PAF base and played a decisive role in the defence of Pakistan with its spectacular performance under Group Captain Zafar Masud. Soon after that war, Chinese F-6s joined the PAF inventory and again Sargodha Base was the first to receive these aircraft. This event was closely followed by yet another induction, the French Mirage-III, which replaced 5 Squadron's Sabres.
Adhering to a well conceived layout, Sargodha Air Base has, continually improved with time in both its residential and operational facilities. Sensitive installations are well dispersed and a complex network of several taxiways and runways is routinely in operation at the same time. In' 1971, the clouds of war gathered over the subcontinent once again and culminated in another conflict between Pakistan and India in December. As in 1965, Sargodha base came through this fierce duel also with flying colours. After the war, Sargodha continued to set the pace of modernization across the entire spectrum of operational, maintenance and logistic disciplines in the Air Force. One of the most important events during this period was the formation of the Combat Commander's School in 1976, the successor to PAF's Fighter Leaders' School.
Another exciting chapter was added to the history of Sargodha base when, on 29th January 83, No. 11 Squadron became the first to receive the new F-16 Fighting Falcons. In March 1984, No. 9 Squadron was also reequipped with F-16s and moved to Sargodha. These two Fighting Falcon squadrons together constituted a flying wing which was designated as No. 38 Wing on 31st October 1984. In the wake of these developments, certain other changes also took place involving the move of No. 5 Squadron, 25 OCU and 33 Wing out of Sargodha. On 17th May 1986, a 38 Wing aircraft became the first PAF F-16 to score a kill when its pilot shot down an intruding Su-7 fighter of the Afghan Air Force. The air base continues to bristle with activity in several other fields including air defence, logistics and that of the nearby Headquarters of PAF's Central Air Command.
Compared with just 1 officer and approximately 25 airmen who manned Sargodha in its embryonic stage, the present strength of the base and its peacetime lodger units is more than impressive. Sargodha also provides administrative support to the pre-Academy PAF College which started as RPAF Public School in 1952 and now performs the role of an inter-services cadet training institution which it runs a two year university course for students belonging to the army, navy and air force.
Sprawling over several hundred acres of lush green soil, Sargodha air base has excellent technical and domestic accommodation, colleges and schools, a large and well equipped hospital, sports grounds, a golf course and free hunting facilities and a reward - for killing the exceptionally tough wild boars which inhabit the area surrounding the airfield.
Inspiring episodes of sacrifice, patriotism and sense of duty displayed by the men of this base during the 1965 and 1971 Wars with India have earned the respect and admiration of the entire PAF, the people of Sargodha, those of the nearby villages and indeed the whole country. Sargodha is justifiably proud of its nationwide fame as the City of the Shaheens and is, till now, one of only 3 cities of Pakistan to be awarded the Hilal-e-Istiqlal which flutters proudly over the municipal hall. Wartime pilots of this air base have been awarded 2 Hilal-e-Juraats and several Sitara-e-Juraats for intrepidity of the highest order.
Taxiing out to their different runways each morning for take off, today's young pilots of Sargodha can strongly feel the presence of there departed warrior comrades of long ago who operated from the very same airfield: Sarfraz Rafiqui, Alauddin Ahmed, Muniruddin, Yunus Hussain and others. Then, as if to remind them of their privileged lineage, their eyes catch the simply lettered words on boards along the taxiway: RETURN WITH HONOUR
PAF BASE CHAKLALA
Chaklala was already functioning as an RIAF station well before independence and a Para Training School (PTS) was located there. On 12 January 47, a medical training centre under the command of Squadron Leader Haque was also established at Chaklala. On 14 August 47, the PTS had the honour of presenting the guard at the lowering of the RIAF ensign for the last time when RPAF Station Chaklala was born. The base soon became the scene of intense air activity; in August alone, there were as many as three hundred and nine arrivals and departures in addition to frequent VIP movements. The station provided all ground handling facilities to Nos 10 and 31 RAF Squadrons which conducted many Dakota flights for the evacuation of non-Muslims from various frontier regions and for air lifting migrants from India to Pakistan. Being located in a most attractive provincial On 20 September 47, the Central Medical Board (CMB) was established at Chaklala under the command of Squadron Leader Mahmood . Like other RPAF stations, Chaklala was short of manpower and the departure of Indian and RAF units had given it a desolate appearance. Both runways had begun to sink and break up due to soil erosion and excessive traffic, and repairs could not be carried out for want of funds. Meteorological and fire services were almost non-existent and daily requirements were being met on, an adhoc basis.
On 22 June 48, a Bristol Freighter gave a demonstration of loading and unloading of equipment, which was perhaps the first indication of the station becoming a transport base. By October 49, a detachment of 6 Squadron had been established at Chaklala, but the station's main role still related to the function of a forward repair and maintenance unit. No 1 Air 0 P Flight and an air selection centre had also been established here.
On 1 January 50, No 3 University Air Squadron of the Punjab was formed at Chaklala which, alongwith No 1 AOP flight and the 6 Squadron detachment remained the three regular flying elements of the station till June 1954, when the Flying Instructors School (FIS) was established. At about this time No 3 Air Scouts Troop and No 76 MODC Platoon were also raised at Chaklala. By January 56, 4 additional units had come up at the base: No 103 Air Logistic Depot, No 2 Wireless Observer Squadron and No 10 MODC Platoon were established here, while the Central Gliding School (CGS) was, moved up from Drigh Road to Chaklala.
The northern area air transport commitment had meanwhile grown from a single aircraft operation in 1949 to almost the full strength of a squadron, and from the mid-50s onwards,transport squadron personnel were being continuously rotated at Chaklala from their parent station, Lahore. Finally in 1960 the entire air transport element of the PAF, i.e. Nos. 3, 6 and 12 Squadrons were moved to Chaklala, and since then the base has remained the hub of all peace time military air transport activity in Pakistan. In March 1963, the first four C-130s were received by No. 6 Squadron and on 29 June the C-in-C PAF flew in one of them for the first time. Next day, the Bristol freighters were struck off from the squadron establishment. Over two years later, in September 65, the technicians and engineers of PAF Chaklala accomplished the unusual feat of making 4 phased out Freighters serviceable for war operations within just two days. During the war the base carried out 297 sorties against the enemy and 5 officers were awarded Sitara-e-Juraat. On 17 April 67 a formation of 5 C-130s flew for the first time in an air display held at Chaklala. In 1971, the base had again become a centre of hectic air transport activity much before the war itself, because of the floods and civil disturbances in East Pakistan.
The base continues its function as a military air transport and VIP movement centre. It has had the privilege of accommodating the main component of Air Headquarters in its modern Transport Conversion School building since the early-80s and boasts of providing functional or administrative support to more than 50 units today.
Chaklala was already functioning as an RIAF station well before independence and a Para Training School (PTS) was located there. On 12 January 47, a medical training centre under the command of Squadron Leader Haque was also established at Chaklala. On 14 August 47, the PTS had the honour of presenting the guard at the lowering of the RIAF ensign for the last time when RPAF Station Chaklala was born. The base soon became the scene of intense air activity; in August alone, there were as many as three hundred and nine arrivals and departures in addition to frequent VIP movements. The station provided all ground handling facilities to Nos 10 and 31 RAF Squadrons which conducted many Dakota flights for the evacuation of non-Muslims from various frontier regions and for air lifting migrants from India to Pakistan. Being located in a most attractive provincial On 20 September 47, the Central Medical Board (CMB) was established at Chaklala under the command of Squadron Leader Mahmood . Like other RPAF stations, Chaklala was short of manpower and the departure of Indian and RAF units had given it a desolate appearance. Both runways had begun to sink and break up due to soil erosion and excessive traffic, and repairs could not be carried out for want of funds. Meteorological and fire services were almost non-existent and daily requirements were being met on, an adhoc basis.
On 22 June 48, a Bristol Freighter gave a demonstration of loading and unloading of equipment, which was perhaps the first indication of the station becoming a transport base. By October 49, a detachment of 6 Squadron had been established at Chaklala, but the station's main role still related to the function of a forward repair and maintenance unit. No 1 Air 0 P Flight and an air selection centre had also been established here.
On 1 January 50, No 3 University Air Squadron of the Punjab was formed at Chaklala which, alongwith No 1 AOP flight and the 6 Squadron detachment remained the three regular flying elements of the station till June 1954, when the Flying Instructors School (FIS) was established. At about this time No 3 Air Scouts Troop and No 76 MODC Platoon were also raised at Chaklala. By January 56, 4 additional units had come up at the base: No 103 Air Logistic Depot, No 2 Wireless Observer Squadron and No 10 MODC Platoon were established here, while the Central Gliding School (CGS) was, moved up from Drigh Road to Chaklala.
The northern area air transport commitment had meanwhile grown from a single aircraft operation in 1949 to almost the full strength of a squadron, and from the mid-50s onwards,transport squadron personnel were being continuously rotated at Chaklala from their parent station, Lahore. Finally in 1960 the entire air transport element of the PAF, i.e. Nos. 3, 6 and 12 Squadrons were moved to Chaklala, and since then the base has remained the hub of all peace time military air transport activity in Pakistan. In March 1963, the first four C-130s were received by No. 6 Squadron and on 29 June the C-in-C PAF flew in one of them for the first time. Next day, the Bristol freighters were struck off from the squadron establishment. Over two years later, in September 65, the technicians and engineers of PAF Chaklala accomplished the unusual feat of making 4 phased out Freighters serviceable for war operations within just two days. During the war the base carried out 297 sorties against the enemy and 5 officers were awarded Sitara-e-Juraat. On 17 April 67 a formation of 5 C-130s flew for the first time in an air display held at Chaklala. In 1971, the base had again become a centre of hectic air transport activity much before the war itself, because of the floods and civil disturbances in East Pakistan.
The base continues its function as a military air transport and VIP movement centre. It has had the privilege of accommodating the main component of Air Headquarters in its modern Transport Conversion School building since the early-80s and boasts of providing functional or administrative support to more than 50 units today.
PAF BASE MIANWALI
During the 1965 war it was realized that Sargodha needed an alternate recovery airfield deeper inside Pakistani territory, and Mianwali was selected as the site for this new air base, partly because a WW II airstrip already existed there already. In addition to serving as a deeper airfield looking east, it would act as a front line base against a threat from the west. Initially it was conceived as a satellite airfield only.
During the 71 war, Mianwali played a very active role and contributed substantially to the war effort of the PAF. It was activated in October 71 with Group Captain S M Dutta as its commander. Detachments of several types of aircraft operated from this' airfield during the war. The Indians found this airfield an attractive target and made regular raids on it for the first three days of war. However, after suffering heavy losses without causing any damage, the IAF discontinued its raids on Mianwali.
Mianwali's battle initiation occurred on the second day of the war. As a pair of F-6s was lining up for take off, 2 enemy Hunters pulled up for attack, having sneaked in undetected. The Hunters aimed at the lined up fighters but poor shooting left both F-6s untouched. As the Hunters pulled out of their attack and started exiting east at low level, one of the F-6 pilots Flight Lieutenant Javed Qazi took off in hot pursuit. Making up for lost time in full afterburner, Qazi never took his eyes off his targets and shot one of them down near Sakesar, about 40 miles from his home base. For his cool courage in precarious circumstances, he was awarded the Sitara-e-Juraat. During that war, another 4 Indian aircraft were destroyed and one damaged by the pilots and gunners, of this base.
In August 74, Mianwali was upgraded from a satellite to a full-fledged operational base. Wing Commander Sultan Muhammad took over as the first base commander. It took about three more years to complete the remaining framework of a permanent operational base with facilities such as residential camps, messes, and technical complexes.
In November 75, No.1 Fighter Conversion Unit was shifted from PAF Base Masroor to Mianwali on a permanent basis and equipped with the Chinese FT-5 (Mig-17T) aircraft. The FCU was to undertake fighter conversion training of the PAF Academy graduates. Since then this unit has successfully carried out this task, and has trained over 500 fighter, pilots who form the backbone of the PAF combat force today.
The next unit to arrive at Mianwali was No.14 Squadron in November 76. The squadron was assigned the task of carrying out operational conversion of the graduates from No I FCU on their first single-seat fighter. No.14 Squadron continued to perform this task till August 86 when it was selected for reequipment with F-16s and moved out of Mianwali. The F-6 OCU task is now in the hands of No 25 Squadron. Several additional operational units and facilities have been added to the base during the 1980's
During the 1965 war it was realized that Sargodha needed an alternate recovery airfield deeper inside Pakistani territory, and Mianwali was selected as the site for this new air base, partly because a WW II airstrip already existed there already. In addition to serving as a deeper airfield looking east, it would act as a front line base against a threat from the west. Initially it was conceived as a satellite airfield only.
During the 71 war, Mianwali played a very active role and contributed substantially to the war effort of the PAF. It was activated in October 71 with Group Captain S M Dutta as its commander. Detachments of several types of aircraft operated from this' airfield during the war. The Indians found this airfield an attractive target and made regular raids on it for the first three days of war. However, after suffering heavy losses without causing any damage, the IAF discontinued its raids on Mianwali.
Mianwali's battle initiation occurred on the second day of the war. As a pair of F-6s was lining up for take off, 2 enemy Hunters pulled up for attack, having sneaked in undetected. The Hunters aimed at the lined up fighters but poor shooting left both F-6s untouched. As the Hunters pulled out of their attack and started exiting east at low level, one of the F-6 pilots Flight Lieutenant Javed Qazi took off in hot pursuit. Making up for lost time in full afterburner, Qazi never took his eyes off his targets and shot one of them down near Sakesar, about 40 miles from his home base. For his cool courage in precarious circumstances, he was awarded the Sitara-e-Juraat. During that war, another 4 Indian aircraft were destroyed and one damaged by the pilots and gunners, of this base.
In August 74, Mianwali was upgraded from a satellite to a full-fledged operational base. Wing Commander Sultan Muhammad took over as the first base commander. It took about three more years to complete the remaining framework of a permanent operational base with facilities such as residential camps, messes, and technical complexes.
In November 75, No.1 Fighter Conversion Unit was shifted from PAF Base Masroor to Mianwali on a permanent basis and equipped with the Chinese FT-5 (Mig-17T) aircraft. The FCU was to undertake fighter conversion training of the PAF Academy graduates. Since then this unit has successfully carried out this task, and has trained over 500 fighter, pilots who form the backbone of the PAF combat force today.
The next unit to arrive at Mianwali was No.14 Squadron in November 76. The squadron was assigned the task of carrying out operational conversion of the graduates from No I FCU on their first single-seat fighter. No.14 Squadron continued to perform this task till August 86 when it was selected for reequipment with F-16s and moved out of Mianwali. The F-6 OCU task is now in the hands of No 25 Squadron. Several additional operational units and facilities have been added to the base during the 1980's
PAF BASE BADIN
In 1962 it was felt necessary by the PAF to establish a radar installation at Badin due to the strategic importance of the area. It was located close to the Indian border, and enemy aircraft taking off from forward Indian airfields in Rajasthan would have to pass through its cover to attack civil and military targets in the lower Sind region between Sukkur and Karachi. For a number of years the base remained an important sector operations centre contributing to the air defence of a large area in the southern region of Pakistan.
The base is located in the typically sandy and flat terrain of the southern Sind where the post-independence availability of water has transformed the countryside into highly productive farm lands. Due to its remote location, friends did sympathize in the early days if one was posted to Badin. But with the efforts and initiatives of each successive base commander, the technical and domestic facilities at Badin continued to improve and today the base is fully self sufficient in all operational, administrative and recreational respects.
Throughout the 65 war Badin's men bravely warded off air attacks and kept its operational facilities fully intact. On 21 September, When an enemy rocket set ablaze an equipment building, Leading Aircraftman Muhammad Anwar Hussain Khan, a radar mechanic of the maintenance wing, died a hero's death while trying to extinguish this fire. For his courageous conduct Anwar Hussain was posthumously awarded the Tamgha-e-Juraat. He lies buried near the main guard room where floral wreaths are laid on his grave on 7 September every year to renew the memory of his valour.
Some time before the 71 war began, the sector operations centre at Badin was moved to a new location to enable it better to cover a larger area of responsibility. During that war, the observer squadrons of the base were deployed at their assigned surveillance posts and provided excellent and timely warnings to the air defence network. In one particular air raid against Badin itself the determined gunners of the ack unit shot down an attacking Mig-21 with their intensive and accurate fire. Much has been done in recent years too by way of further development and modernization of the base. Its responsibilities have been enhanced both in magnitude and in character to enable it to continue its solid contribution to the PAF's operational efficiency
In 1962 it was felt necessary by the PAF to establish a radar installation at Badin due to the strategic importance of the area. It was located close to the Indian border, and enemy aircraft taking off from forward Indian airfields in Rajasthan would have to pass through its cover to attack civil and military targets in the lower Sind region between Sukkur and Karachi. For a number of years the base remained an important sector operations centre contributing to the air defence of a large area in the southern region of Pakistan.
The base is located in the typically sandy and flat terrain of the southern Sind where the post-independence availability of water has transformed the countryside into highly productive farm lands. Due to its remote location, friends did sympathize in the early days if one was posted to Badin. But with the efforts and initiatives of each successive base commander, the technical and domestic facilities at Badin continued to improve and today the base is fully self sufficient in all operational, administrative and recreational respects.
Throughout the 65 war Badin's men bravely warded off air attacks and kept its operational facilities fully intact. On 21 September, When an enemy rocket set ablaze an equipment building, Leading Aircraftman Muhammad Anwar Hussain Khan, a radar mechanic of the maintenance wing, died a hero's death while trying to extinguish this fire. For his courageous conduct Anwar Hussain was posthumously awarded the Tamgha-e-Juraat. He lies buried near the main guard room where floral wreaths are laid on his grave on 7 September every year to renew the memory of his valour.
Some time before the 71 war began, the sector operations centre at Badin was moved to a new location to enable it better to cover a larger area of responsibility. During that war, the observer squadrons of the base were deployed at their assigned surveillance posts and provided excellent and timely warnings to the air defence network. In one particular air raid against Badin itself the determined gunners of the ack unit shot down an attacking Mig-21 with their intensive and accurate fire. Much has been done in recent years too by way of further development and modernization of the base. Its responsibilities have been enhanced both in magnitude and in character to enable it to continue its solid contribution to the PAF's operational efficiency