Islamabad — Former Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal (retd) Sohail Aman has stated that India underestimated Pakistan’s military power and resolve during the May standoff, a miscalculation that he said was exposed by Pakistan’s swift and effective response to aggression.
Addressing a seminar in the federal capital, organised by overseas Pakistanis in collaboration with the Pakistan Ex-Servicemen Society (PESS), the former air chief said India wrongly assumed that Pakistan would avoid a strong response. “This flawed assessment proved costly,” he remarked, adding that Pakistan’s armed forces demonstrated both capability and preparedness during the confrontation.
Air Chief Marshal (retd) Aman stressed that modern warfare is no longer limited to numbers or conventional hardware, but depends heavily on integrated command structures, advanced technology, intelligence, research and support systems. Referring to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision, he said a strong air force remains a cornerstone of national defence in an increasingly complex security environment.
He also dismissed speculation regarding the involvement of foreign pilots, clarifying that no external forces participated in combat operations alongside Pakistan during the four-day escalation. According to him, the response was entirely planned and executed by Pakistan’s own armed forces.
The former air chief emphasised the importance of indigenous defence capabilities, research and education, saying long-term security depends on strengthening institutions and linking innovation with operational readiness. He added that Pakistan must continue investing in human capital and technology to maintain strategic balance in the region.
Other speakers at the event, including government officials and retired military officers, paid tribute to the armed forces for safeguarding the country’s sovereignty. They also acknowledged the role of overseas Pakistanis in supporting the national economy and projecting a positive image of Pakistan abroad.
The seminar concluded with renewed calls for unity, resilience and continued support for the armed forces amid evolving regional challenges.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.