Imran Khan
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its only proud thing no-2 sqwardan. we never forget you our hero
PAF - Operations
- Thread starter fatman17
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x_man
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No 2 squadron and Plt Off Rashid Minhas are synonymous…Even since I know , Masroor has been the home base for this squadron ,despite that aircrafts kept on changing but 2 sqdn never left Karachi.
As most of you must be aware that F-86 didn’t had a dual seat trainer, so T-33 provided a good platform for transition.
When F-Ps started arriving in late 80, No 2 squadron was also equipped with these around that time. The squadron was split into A and B flights. A flight comprised of F-7s and T-33s were in the B flight. It was a very interesting mix of two very different weapon systems in one squadron. During this time, T-33s were relegated from training or any other operational role to target towing only. They used to carry a big orange banner behind them upon which the fighters would practice the air-air straffing……It must have been very scary for the T-33 jocks, around whom 4 F-6s or 4 Mirages are orbiting to fire their load on the banner…Any slight miscalculation could result into hitting the aircraft instead of the banner….Hats off to those guys..
During early 90s, T-33s were considered redundant and phased out. With B flight gone, 2 squadron now only operates F-7Ps. Today, each F-7 of No 2 Squadron proudly shows off the Nishane Haider insignia on its tail that always reminds us of the great sacrifice made by their one of the squadron mate….
As most of you must be aware that F-86 didn’t had a dual seat trainer, so T-33 provided a good platform for transition.
When F-Ps started arriving in late 80, No 2 squadron was also equipped with these around that time. The squadron was split into A and B flights. A flight comprised of F-7s and T-33s were in the B flight. It was a very interesting mix of two very different weapon systems in one squadron. During this time, T-33s were relegated from training or any other operational role to target towing only. They used to carry a big orange banner behind them upon which the fighters would practice the air-air straffing……It must have been very scary for the T-33 jocks, around whom 4 F-6s or 4 Mirages are orbiting to fire their load on the banner…Any slight miscalculation could result into hitting the aircraft instead of the banner….Hats off to those guys..
During early 90s, T-33s were considered redundant and phased out. With B flight gone, 2 squadron now only operates F-7Ps. Today, each F-7 of No 2 Squadron proudly shows off the Nishane Haider insignia on its tail that always reminds us of the great sacrifice made by their one of the squadron mate….
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 4 Squadron
In January 58, a maritime flight consisting of 2 Grumman SA-16 Albatross amphibian aircraft was established as part of No 12 Composite Squadron based at Mauripur. on 15 August 59 the status and strength of this flight was raised to that of a squadron with 4 SA-16 Albatross and 4 Bristol Freighters; the unit was designated No 4 Squadron. on 8 July 60 its strength was reduced to 2 SA-16s and 2 H-19D Helicopters, and it was assigned the role of search, rescue and casualty evacuation and maritime reconnaissence.
No 4 Squadron carried out all its assigned tasks in a creditable manner. from 9 to 21 November 64 the unit also took part in CENTO maritime excercise Midlink VII. during the 65 India-pakistan war, the SA-16s were employed to detect and report movement of all kinds of vessels, particularly the indian aircraft carrier Vikrant. the HD-19s for their part helped the army to track down suspicious persons in the coastal areas.
On 19 August 68 the SA-16s were placed in storage bringing to a close their commendable 10 year contribution to the task of search and rescue (SAR). No 4 Squadron continued operating its helicopters till they too were approaching the end of their useful life. in March 69 the unit was number-plated.
No 4 Squadron
In January 58, a maritime flight consisting of 2 Grumman SA-16 Albatross amphibian aircraft was established as part of No 12 Composite Squadron based at Mauripur. on 15 August 59 the status and strength of this flight was raised to that of a squadron with 4 SA-16 Albatross and 4 Bristol Freighters; the unit was designated No 4 Squadron. on 8 July 60 its strength was reduced to 2 SA-16s and 2 H-19D Helicopters, and it was assigned the role of search, rescue and casualty evacuation and maritime reconnaissence.
No 4 Squadron carried out all its assigned tasks in a creditable manner. from 9 to 21 November 64 the unit also took part in CENTO maritime excercise Midlink VII. during the 65 India-pakistan war, the SA-16s were employed to detect and report movement of all kinds of vessels, particularly the indian aircraft carrier Vikrant. the HD-19s for their part helped the army to track down suspicious persons in the coastal areas.
On 19 August 68 the SA-16s were placed in storage bringing to a close their commendable 10 year contribution to the task of search and rescue (SAR). No 4 Squadron continued operating its helicopters till they too were approaching the end of their useful life. in March 69 the unit was number-plated.
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 5 Squadron
No 5 RPAF Squadron was formed with 8 Tempest MK II aircraft on 15 August 47 at Peshawar under the command of S/L Zaheer Ahmad; most of its personnel came from No 1 RIAF Squadron. despite shortage of technical manpower , the unit ably carried out its assigned task of watch and ward duties from Miranshah during the early period of its history. in December 47 the squadron took part in Operation "Curzon" during which it provided cover to the army which was being pulled out of Razmak.
The Squadron was visited by the PM of Pakistan, Mr, Liaquat Ali Khan in January 48. He was accompanied by the RPAF C-in-C, AVM Perry Keene and AC MK Janjua. on April 11 48, the squadron presented a smartly turned out guard-of-honour to the visiting GC of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Mohd Ali Jinnah at peshawar and two days later the squadron pilots participated in a fly-past in honour of the Quaid's visit to Risalpur.
In the early 50's the squadron was re-equipped with Hawker Fury which was the best piston-engined fighter-bomber of the time. in June 51 the squadron lost P/O IA Rafiqui in a air-crash near lahore. He was the elder brother of S/L Sarfraz A Rafiqui, HJ, who joined the same squadron as a P/O on 4 November 53 and later commanded the unit from March 63 onwards.
In November 51, S/L FS Hussain took over as squadron commander and a few months later the squadron won the inter-squadron armament trophy which he received from the C-in-C, AVM LW Cannon on 12 Feburary 52.
On 1 September 65, even before full scale war has started, 5 Squadron had the distinction of shooting down 4 IAF Vampires in the very first air engagement of that day. during the 65 war the squadron flew 190 hours in various types of operations. S/L SA Rafiqui shot down 2 Vampires and 1 Hunter aircraft. he was reported missing at 1800hrs on 6 September 65, and later confirmed as killed in an engagement near an enemy airbase. F/Lt. Yunus Hussain, his wingman, also gave his life for the nation in the same action, aftr having shot down 1 Hunter. F/Lt. Cecil Chaudhry of the same squadron accounted for 2 Hunters and 1 Canberra during the war while F/Lt. AH Malik shot down 1 Hunter.
In 1967 the squadron was re-equipped with Mirage-III aircraft and assigned a tactical attack role in which the squadron had become fully operational before the 1971 war with India. during the war it flew over 200 day and night sorties which included counter air, photo reccee and interdiction missions as well as air defence. the squadron participated in the first strikes against the IAF bases at pathankot and avantipura. it did not sustain a single loss during throughout the war. F/Lt. Naeem Ata shot down 1 Canberra at night and F/Lt. Riaz Sheikh damaged 1 SU-7 aircraft. W/Cmdr Hakimullah and S/L Farooq Umer were awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (= DFC).
No 5 Squadron
No 5 RPAF Squadron was formed with 8 Tempest MK II aircraft on 15 August 47 at Peshawar under the command of S/L Zaheer Ahmad; most of its personnel came from No 1 RIAF Squadron. despite shortage of technical manpower , the unit ably carried out its assigned task of watch and ward duties from Miranshah during the early period of its history. in December 47 the squadron took part in Operation "Curzon" during which it provided cover to the army which was being pulled out of Razmak.
The Squadron was visited by the PM of Pakistan, Mr, Liaquat Ali Khan in January 48. He was accompanied by the RPAF C-in-C, AVM Perry Keene and AC MK Janjua. on April 11 48, the squadron presented a smartly turned out guard-of-honour to the visiting GC of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Mohd Ali Jinnah at peshawar and two days later the squadron pilots participated in a fly-past in honour of the Quaid's visit to Risalpur.
In the early 50's the squadron was re-equipped with Hawker Fury which was the best piston-engined fighter-bomber of the time. in June 51 the squadron lost P/O IA Rafiqui in a air-crash near lahore. He was the elder brother of S/L Sarfraz A Rafiqui, HJ, who joined the same squadron as a P/O on 4 November 53 and later commanded the unit from March 63 onwards.
In November 51, S/L FS Hussain took over as squadron commander and a few months later the squadron won the inter-squadron armament trophy which he received from the C-in-C, AVM LW Cannon on 12 Feburary 52.
On 1 September 65, even before full scale war has started, 5 Squadron had the distinction of shooting down 4 IAF Vampires in the very first air engagement of that day. during the 65 war the squadron flew 190 hours in various types of operations. S/L SA Rafiqui shot down 2 Vampires and 1 Hunter aircraft. he was reported missing at 1800hrs on 6 September 65, and later confirmed as killed in an engagement near an enemy airbase. F/Lt. Yunus Hussain, his wingman, also gave his life for the nation in the same action, aftr having shot down 1 Hunter. F/Lt. Cecil Chaudhry of the same squadron accounted for 2 Hunters and 1 Canberra during the war while F/Lt. AH Malik shot down 1 Hunter.
In 1967 the squadron was re-equipped with Mirage-III aircraft and assigned a tactical attack role in which the squadron had become fully operational before the 1971 war with India. during the war it flew over 200 day and night sorties which included counter air, photo reccee and interdiction missions as well as air defence. the squadron participated in the first strikes against the IAF bases at pathankot and avantipura. it did not sustain a single loss during throughout the war. F/Lt. Naeem Ata shot down 1 Canberra at night and F/Lt. Riaz Sheikh damaged 1 SU-7 aircraft. W/Cmdr Hakimullah and S/L Farooq Umer were awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (= DFC).
x_man
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Sir just a bit on some missing info here. PAF now also has No 3 Squadron. Probably due to some unit establishment (U/E) issues , around five years back , No 12 VIP squadron was re-named as No. 3 VIP squadron. Except name change, rest all details are same as of 12 squadron...It’s still based at Chaklala and as its name suggests, is responsible to carry the VIPs around.
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 6 Squadron
With the birth of Pakistan on 14 August 47, No 6 RPAF Squadron came into being although it had already existed for several years before independence as an RIAF unit. the squadron inherited 1 servicable Dakota with 2 pilots, 3 navigators and 3 signallers stationed at peshawar. to remedy this paucity of men and material, the RPAF drew up a three=phase program; in the 1st phase , ending on 31st March 48, No 6 squadron received 7 more Dakota's and during the next 12 months the aircraft strength went upto around 20.
During this period a pattern of operations was established by the squadron for supply dropping in Azad Kashmir. these missions were essential for keeping troops and villages cutoff by snowbound roads supplied with essentials of life. flying fully loaded Dakotas with an effective ceiling of not much above 10,000 ft, in an environment of peaks ranging from 16,000 to 20,000 ft., No 6 squadron could accomplish these missions only by following the sinuous curves of the Indus valley. During November 48, the squadron operating, from Risalpur and Peshawar, air-dropped some 88,000 Ibs of supplies. on 4 November 48, a Dakota piloted by F/O Mukhtar Dogar was attacked by 2 IAF Tempests. the pilot skilfully evaded the attackers and brought the Dakota safely back to base. F/O Dogar was awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC) for this act of gallantry. he was the first officer of the squadron to receive a gallantry award.
In early 1950, a large number of Bristol Freighters were purchased from the UK and added to the fleet of 6 squadron. their performance was similar to that of the Dakotas so no new techniques were necessary for the conduct of northern area operations. the generous reserve of Bristol freighters enabled 6 squadron to undertake an extensive range of transport and communications tasks within and outside Pakistan for nearly 15 years. in 1955 some of the aircraft were adapted to carry a 4,000 Ib "block buster" bomb beneath each wing and the squadron carried out a limited amount of training for a night bombing role against lightly defended targets. this paved the way for similar operations at a later stage with C-130s.
The squadron acquitted itself creditably during large scale food dropping missions in the 1952 floods; a Sanad to this effect was presented by the Governor of the Punjab on 17 August 52. from 15 to 30 November 53, operation "Snow Drop" was carried out to deliver supplies to the northern areas. Chaklala was used as the forward base and 800,000 Ibs of supplies were dropped in 780 hours of flying. in 1955 the squadron also demonstrated supply dropping during an air display witnessed by the defence minister, Gen. Mohd Ayub Khan at Lahore.
During its formative years, 6 squadron gained valuable operational experience on Bristol Freighters in a variety of climatic and geographical environments, ranging from the snowbound peaks of Kashmir to the desert of southern Punjab to the tropical forests of East Pakistan. In 1963 when 4 Lockheed C-130's were received under US Aid program , it enabled the squadron to phase-out its Bristol Freighters. the Hercules also allowed the squadron to revise its valley flight procedures by overflying the Karakorams before letting down over the destination air-strips and drop zones, with a corresponding improvement in safety standards.
During the 1965 War, the PAF offensive against bases included assaults by para commandos, who were dropped at night from 3 C-130Bs near Adampur, Halwara and Pathankot. in another role, the squadron was also able to convert its Hercules aircraft into night bombers for raids against battlefield targets with upto 22,000 Ibs of HE bombs, which were rolled out of the rear ramp on pallets. the squadron flew over 20 such missions and dropped bombs on enemy forces moving up for the battles of Chawinda and Pulkanjari. seven officers were awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC) and two JCO's the Taghma-e-Jurat (=DSM).
After the 65 war, 6 squadron continued its task of logistic support for army units stationed in the northern areas and of routine PAF commitments in both wings of Pakistan. the squadron came under tremendous pressure towards the end of 1970 when the political situation in E.Pakistan became unstable. the unit efficiently completed the task of moving a large number of troops from west to east Pakistan. in 1970 the squadron also participated in extensive flood relief operations in east Pakistan. when civil war errupted in east Pakistan in March 71, 2 C-130s were permanently deployed at Dacca; they remained there till the December wae broke out. these aircraft took extensive part in evacuation of troops and civilians from hostile areas. W/Cmdr. Munim A. Khan lifted a record figure of 365 people from Sylhet to Dacca in one C-130 sortie. in 1971 the Indian govt. had stopped PAF flights over India and the squadrons C-130s proceeding to east Pakistan had to route via Sri Lanka, entailing sorties of exhaustive length as well as the risk of interception by IAF fighter aircraft.
When war broke out on 3 December 71, the squadron undertook tactical bombing raids in west Pakistan in much the same way it had done in the 65 war. a C-130 captained by G/Capt. Mir Alam made a very successful attack against Jaisalmer and inflicted heavy damage upon the IAF's technical complex there. the crew were awarded Sitara-e-Jurat (SJ) for this action. successful bombings were also carried out in the Srinagar valley and against battlefield targets. the squadron did not suffer any loss of life or equipment.
The squadron regularly participated in CENTO excercises "Nejat" and produced good results; the excercises were held at Masroor, Rezayiah (Iran), UK and Turkey. every year the squadron takes PAF Air War College for its educational tours abroad. since 1971 the college teams have been taken to China, UK, Australia, N-Korea, Germany, Egypt, Syria, Cyprus, Singapore, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. owing to its increased commitments, some additional C-130E's have been provided to the unit during the last decade.
No 6 Squadron
With the birth of Pakistan on 14 August 47, No 6 RPAF Squadron came into being although it had already existed for several years before independence as an RIAF unit. the squadron inherited 1 servicable Dakota with 2 pilots, 3 navigators and 3 signallers stationed at peshawar. to remedy this paucity of men and material, the RPAF drew up a three=phase program; in the 1st phase , ending on 31st March 48, No 6 squadron received 7 more Dakota's and during the next 12 months the aircraft strength went upto around 20.
During this period a pattern of operations was established by the squadron for supply dropping in Azad Kashmir. these missions were essential for keeping troops and villages cutoff by snowbound roads supplied with essentials of life. flying fully loaded Dakotas with an effective ceiling of not much above 10,000 ft, in an environment of peaks ranging from 16,000 to 20,000 ft., No 6 squadron could accomplish these missions only by following the sinuous curves of the Indus valley. During November 48, the squadron operating, from Risalpur and Peshawar, air-dropped some 88,000 Ibs of supplies. on 4 November 48, a Dakota piloted by F/O Mukhtar Dogar was attacked by 2 IAF Tempests. the pilot skilfully evaded the attackers and brought the Dakota safely back to base. F/O Dogar was awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC) for this act of gallantry. he was the first officer of the squadron to receive a gallantry award.
In early 1950, a large number of Bristol Freighters were purchased from the UK and added to the fleet of 6 squadron. their performance was similar to that of the Dakotas so no new techniques were necessary for the conduct of northern area operations. the generous reserve of Bristol freighters enabled 6 squadron to undertake an extensive range of transport and communications tasks within and outside Pakistan for nearly 15 years. in 1955 some of the aircraft were adapted to carry a 4,000 Ib "block buster" bomb beneath each wing and the squadron carried out a limited amount of training for a night bombing role against lightly defended targets. this paved the way for similar operations at a later stage with C-130s.
The squadron acquitted itself creditably during large scale food dropping missions in the 1952 floods; a Sanad to this effect was presented by the Governor of the Punjab on 17 August 52. from 15 to 30 November 53, operation "Snow Drop" was carried out to deliver supplies to the northern areas. Chaklala was used as the forward base and 800,000 Ibs of supplies were dropped in 780 hours of flying. in 1955 the squadron also demonstrated supply dropping during an air display witnessed by the defence minister, Gen. Mohd Ayub Khan at Lahore.
During its formative years, 6 squadron gained valuable operational experience on Bristol Freighters in a variety of climatic and geographical environments, ranging from the snowbound peaks of Kashmir to the desert of southern Punjab to the tropical forests of East Pakistan. In 1963 when 4 Lockheed C-130's were received under US Aid program , it enabled the squadron to phase-out its Bristol Freighters. the Hercules also allowed the squadron to revise its valley flight procedures by overflying the Karakorams before letting down over the destination air-strips and drop zones, with a corresponding improvement in safety standards.
During the 1965 War, the PAF offensive against bases included assaults by para commandos, who were dropped at night from 3 C-130Bs near Adampur, Halwara and Pathankot. in another role, the squadron was also able to convert its Hercules aircraft into night bombers for raids against battlefield targets with upto 22,000 Ibs of HE bombs, which were rolled out of the rear ramp on pallets. the squadron flew over 20 such missions and dropped bombs on enemy forces moving up for the battles of Chawinda and Pulkanjari. seven officers were awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC) and two JCO's the Taghma-e-Jurat (=DSM).
After the 65 war, 6 squadron continued its task of logistic support for army units stationed in the northern areas and of routine PAF commitments in both wings of Pakistan. the squadron came under tremendous pressure towards the end of 1970 when the political situation in E.Pakistan became unstable. the unit efficiently completed the task of moving a large number of troops from west to east Pakistan. in 1970 the squadron also participated in extensive flood relief operations in east Pakistan. when civil war errupted in east Pakistan in March 71, 2 C-130s were permanently deployed at Dacca; they remained there till the December wae broke out. these aircraft took extensive part in evacuation of troops and civilians from hostile areas. W/Cmdr. Munim A. Khan lifted a record figure of 365 people from Sylhet to Dacca in one C-130 sortie. in 1971 the Indian govt. had stopped PAF flights over India and the squadrons C-130s proceeding to east Pakistan had to route via Sri Lanka, entailing sorties of exhaustive length as well as the risk of interception by IAF fighter aircraft.
When war broke out on 3 December 71, the squadron undertook tactical bombing raids in west Pakistan in much the same way it had done in the 65 war. a C-130 captained by G/Capt. Mir Alam made a very successful attack against Jaisalmer and inflicted heavy damage upon the IAF's technical complex there. the crew were awarded Sitara-e-Jurat (SJ) for this action. successful bombings were also carried out in the Srinagar valley and against battlefield targets. the squadron did not suffer any loss of life or equipment.
The squadron regularly participated in CENTO excercises "Nejat" and produced good results; the excercises were held at Masroor, Rezayiah (Iran), UK and Turkey. every year the squadron takes PAF Air War College for its educational tours abroad. since 1971 the college teams have been taken to China, UK, Australia, N-Korea, Germany, Egypt, Syria, Cyprus, Singapore, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. owing to its increased commitments, some additional C-130E's have been provided to the unit during the last decade.
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 7 Squadron
At its inception in June 60 under the command of S/Ldr. Ayaz A.Khan, this squadron was equipped with Martin B-57 light bombers. at that time it had 10 B-57Bs and 1 B-57C two-seat aircraft. the dual model, appropiately named "baba" for the respect it commanded as the senior most transition vehicle of the squadron, is still airworthy and flying regularly, inspite of having one nose-gear up and two belly-landings to its credit! No 7 Light Bomber Squadron was located at PAF base Mauripur and was assigned the role of airfield strikes and deep interdiction missions. since 1960, the squadron has remained fully prepared to undertake its assigned tasks.
Loss of a few aircraft during the two India-Pak wars as well as occasional accidents, coupled with the increasing problem of spares support, eventually reduced the aircraft strength to an un-economical level. it was therefore decided by AHQ to combine B-57 and T-33 aircraft in one composite squadron in August 82. W/Cmdr. S.Tanveer Hussain who was then OC 7 squadron took over the new No 2 Composite Squadron, while No 7 squadron was number plated.
On 22 November 82, AHQ revived No 7 Squadron with a new weapons system - the chinese A-5 supersonic surface attack combat aircraft. the unit was re-named No 7 Tactical Attack Squadron whose first OC was W/Cmdr. Shams Khan. a colorful ceremony was held on 27 December 83 to fromally re-equip 7 squadron with A-5s and to say good-bye to the "heavies" - the B-57s. a smartly turned out contingent drawn from the air and ground crew's of the new squadron participated in the parade at which the squadron colour was handed over to the new custodians. at the end of the ceremony, 2 B-57s in close-line astern formation flew past to mark the end of their service in the squadron, and in came 3 sleek and agile A-5s in close vic formation. the striking contrast between the two types underlined the new operational arena entered by 7 squadron on that day.
No 7 Squadron has had the honour of fighting in defence of the country in both the 65 and 71 wars. the squadron was tasked to carry out deep penetration at night to bomb heavily defended enemy air bases. all missions were efficiently executed, demonstrating the highest standards of courage and devotion. in the process, 3 aircraft were lost to enemy ground fire during the two wars. the squadron will always remain proud of its 6 shaheeds (Martyrs).
In the short duration of the war of 65, this squadron earned 12 gallantry awards; 7 Sitara-e-Jurats(=DFC) and 5 Imtiaz-i-Sanads(Mention-in-Dispatches). during the war of 71, 8 Sitara-e-Basalats and 2 Taghma-e-Basalats were awarded to the squadron in recognition of the courage displayed by its pilots and navigators.
In recognition of the squadron's acts of gallantry during the two wars, the CAS presented the unit with one of its coveted and proud possessions - the squadron colour - the colour presentation parade, in April 76, was commanded by the OC, W/Cmdr. Yusuf H Alvi, and the colour bearer was F/Lt. Najam S. Butt. the squadron now proudly parades this colour on all ceremonial occassions.
No 7 Squadron
At its inception in June 60 under the command of S/Ldr. Ayaz A.Khan, this squadron was equipped with Martin B-57 light bombers. at that time it had 10 B-57Bs and 1 B-57C two-seat aircraft. the dual model, appropiately named "baba" for the respect it commanded as the senior most transition vehicle of the squadron, is still airworthy and flying regularly, inspite of having one nose-gear up and two belly-landings to its credit! No 7 Light Bomber Squadron was located at PAF base Mauripur and was assigned the role of airfield strikes and deep interdiction missions. since 1960, the squadron has remained fully prepared to undertake its assigned tasks.
Loss of a few aircraft during the two India-Pak wars as well as occasional accidents, coupled with the increasing problem of spares support, eventually reduced the aircraft strength to an un-economical level. it was therefore decided by AHQ to combine B-57 and T-33 aircraft in one composite squadron in August 82. W/Cmdr. S.Tanveer Hussain who was then OC 7 squadron took over the new No 2 Composite Squadron, while No 7 squadron was number plated.
On 22 November 82, AHQ revived No 7 Squadron with a new weapons system - the chinese A-5 supersonic surface attack combat aircraft. the unit was re-named No 7 Tactical Attack Squadron whose first OC was W/Cmdr. Shams Khan. a colorful ceremony was held on 27 December 83 to fromally re-equip 7 squadron with A-5s and to say good-bye to the "heavies" - the B-57s. a smartly turned out contingent drawn from the air and ground crew's of the new squadron participated in the parade at which the squadron colour was handed over to the new custodians. at the end of the ceremony, 2 B-57s in close-line astern formation flew past to mark the end of their service in the squadron, and in came 3 sleek and agile A-5s in close vic formation. the striking contrast between the two types underlined the new operational arena entered by 7 squadron on that day.
No 7 Squadron has had the honour of fighting in defence of the country in both the 65 and 71 wars. the squadron was tasked to carry out deep penetration at night to bomb heavily defended enemy air bases. all missions were efficiently executed, demonstrating the highest standards of courage and devotion. in the process, 3 aircraft were lost to enemy ground fire during the two wars. the squadron will always remain proud of its 6 shaheeds (Martyrs).
In the short duration of the war of 65, this squadron earned 12 gallantry awards; 7 Sitara-e-Jurats(=DFC) and 5 Imtiaz-i-Sanads(Mention-in-Dispatches). during the war of 71, 8 Sitara-e-Basalats and 2 Taghma-e-Basalats were awarded to the squadron in recognition of the courage displayed by its pilots and navigators.
In recognition of the squadron's acts of gallantry during the two wars, the CAS presented the unit with one of its coveted and proud possessions - the squadron colour - the colour presentation parade, in April 76, was commanded by the OC, W/Cmdr. Yusuf H Alvi, and the colour bearer was F/Lt. Najam S. Butt. the squadron now proudly parades this colour on all ceremonial occassions.
Last edited:
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 8 Squadron
The B-57 Light Bomber Wing of the PAF - No 31 - was established in May 1960 with No 7 and 8 Squadrons at PAF station Mauripur (Masroor). No 8 Squadron was raised in August 60 with S/Ldr. Mohd Iqbal as its first OC. he saw the squadron through its infancy and was succeeded by S/Ldr. Saeed A. Ansari in November 63. on 27 October 64, the squadron became the first in the world to form a regular formation aerobatics team of 4 bombers which coolly performed loops in full view of disbelieving spectators.
S/Ldr. Rias A. Rafi succeeded S/Ldr. Ansari in October 64 and remained in command till April 68. it was thus in his tenure that the squadron saw action in the 65 war with India. During the war the squadron carried out counter air operations against enemy airfields at Jamnagar and Jodhpur in the south and Ambala, Adampur, Halwara and Pathankot in the north. the squadron also carried out daring day and night close support missions in the Shakargarh sector. during most of the night strikes the squadron flew in single aircraft stream raids at low level. in the attack phase, the aircraft were pulled up for bomb delivery from multiple diving attacks. the squadron followed this attack mode despite much greater exposure to ground fire because it ensured the best possibility of destroying their targets. during one of these missions, S/Ldr. Alam Siddiqui and Aslam Qureshi - pilot and navigator - were killed in action.
After the war the squadron was awarded 2 Sitara-e-Jurats (=DFC) and 11 Imtiaz-i-Sanads (=Mention-in-Dispatches) for the gallantry and dedication of its crews during operations.
In the post-65 period the squadron trained hard to achieve even higher standards in light of lessons learned during the war. the unit was number-plated on 1 May 70, and its assets amalgamated with those of No 7 squadron. this became necessary because of dwindling spares support following the american arms embargo.
In May 82, the squadron was re-activated at PAF Masroor with Mirage V aircraft under the command of W/Cmdr. Khalid Sattar. the re-equipment ceremony was presided over by the CNS, Admiral Tariq Kemal Khan. in March 86 the squadron was awarded for the best formation in the Pakistan Day fly-past.
No 8 Squadron
The B-57 Light Bomber Wing of the PAF - No 31 - was established in May 1960 with No 7 and 8 Squadrons at PAF station Mauripur (Masroor). No 8 Squadron was raised in August 60 with S/Ldr. Mohd Iqbal as its first OC. he saw the squadron through its infancy and was succeeded by S/Ldr. Saeed A. Ansari in November 63. on 27 October 64, the squadron became the first in the world to form a regular formation aerobatics team of 4 bombers which coolly performed loops in full view of disbelieving spectators.
S/Ldr. Rias A. Rafi succeeded S/Ldr. Ansari in October 64 and remained in command till April 68. it was thus in his tenure that the squadron saw action in the 65 war with India. During the war the squadron carried out counter air operations against enemy airfields at Jamnagar and Jodhpur in the south and Ambala, Adampur, Halwara and Pathankot in the north. the squadron also carried out daring day and night close support missions in the Shakargarh sector. during most of the night strikes the squadron flew in single aircraft stream raids at low level. in the attack phase, the aircraft were pulled up for bomb delivery from multiple diving attacks. the squadron followed this attack mode despite much greater exposure to ground fire because it ensured the best possibility of destroying their targets. during one of these missions, S/Ldr. Alam Siddiqui and Aslam Qureshi - pilot and navigator - were killed in action.
After the war the squadron was awarded 2 Sitara-e-Jurats (=DFC) and 11 Imtiaz-i-Sanads (=Mention-in-Dispatches) for the gallantry and dedication of its crews during operations.
In the post-65 period the squadron trained hard to achieve even higher standards in light of lessons learned during the war. the unit was number-plated on 1 May 70, and its assets amalgamated with those of No 7 squadron. this became necessary because of dwindling spares support following the american arms embargo.
In May 82, the squadron was re-activated at PAF Masroor with Mirage V aircraft under the command of W/Cmdr. Khalid Sattar. the re-equipment ceremony was presided over by the CNS, Admiral Tariq Kemal Khan. in March 86 the squadron was awarded for the best formation in the Pakistan Day fly-past.
Last edited:
fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 9 Squadron
The story of No 9 Squadron dates back to May 44 when it made its operational debut in Burma during WWII. equipped with Hurricane IIC aircraft, it engaged in extensive operations in that theatre and was awarded a souvenir japanese generals "Samurai" sword in recognition of its meritourious services. in the years that followed, the squadron maintained itself in a high state of combat prepardness on a succession of latest fighter aircraft of that time; Spitfire VIII, Tempest II, Fury, Starfighter, Mirage and most recently the Fighting Falcon. Five of its OC's - M Asghar Khan, A Rahim Khan, Zafar A Chaudhry, Zulfiqar A Khan & Jamal A Khan - rose to lead the PAF.
Originally raised at Risalpur on 13 November 43, the squadron was alloted to the RPAF upon partition at the insistance of S/Ldr. M Asghar Khan who had commanded it in 1945 and was a member of the aorforce reconstitution committee in July 47. in its new capacity as the first fighter squadron of the RPAF, it was formed at Peshawar on 15 August 47 with 8 Tempest aircraft under the command of S/Ldr. M Ibrahim Khan. after flying Tempests for almost three years, the squadron converted on to the Hawker Fury fighters in July 50. in November 56 the unit moved to Kohat which was to become its home for the next five years. in 1961, the squadrons decade-long association with Furies as well as the piston-engine chapter came to an end.
In March 61 came the F-104 Starfighters - the ultimate in aircraft technology at that time. in the PAF, 9 squadron was the only receipiant of this awe-inspiring Mach 2 fighter which, through its sheer power and speed, struck terror in enemy ranks in both the India-Pak wars. the Starfighter after rendering valuable service for more than a decade faded out of pakistan skies in the early 70s.
No 9 Squadron re-emerged at Rafiqui in January 73 as a tactical attack unit, equipped with brand new Mirage V aircraft. on 15 June 77 it became a OCU with the task of converting pilots onto Mirage fighters. on 31 August 81, it moved to PAF Masroor and remained there till the middle of 1984. as an OCU the squadron graduated 15 conversion courses on Mirages and in June 84, the squadron changed its location once again and moved to Sargodha, where it was re-equipped with F-16 Fighting Falcons and was redesignated No 9 Multi-Role squadron. it was on this aircraft that S/Ldr. Hameed Qadri shot down an Afghan AF SU-22 and damaged another while flying an Air-Defence mission over Parachinar on 17 July 86.
No 9 squadrons record in war has been as striking as its achievements in peace time. in the 65 war it flew air defence, fighter escort and recce missions from the city of Shaheens on its fabled Starfighters. on 6 September, F/Lt. Aftab shot down an IAF Mystere which was attacking Rahwali. on 7 September F/Lt. Amjad H. Khan accounted for another Mystere. S/Ldr. Jamal A Khan intercepted and shot down a IAF Canberra at night. for their acts of valour S/Ldr.s Jamal A Khan and ML Middlecoat and F/Lt. Amjad H Khan were decorated with Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC).
Soon after the start of the 71 war the Squadron flew its Starfighters to PAF Masroor. there while flying air defence day/night strikes , recce and escort duties, its pilots shot down an IAF Gnat, SU-7 and an Alize. S/Ldr. Amjad H Khan ejected in indian territory while attacking a radar and was taken PoW. W/Cmdr. ML Middlecoat and F/Lt. Samad Changezi made the supreme sacrifice of laying down their lives in defence of the fatherland. both Shaheeds were posthumously awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC).
For its meritorious services in war and peace, the squadron was awarded the squadron colour on 25 January 79. the scrolls around the squadron crest in the middle of the banner carry the battle honours "Sargodha 65" and "Karachi 71". the squadron crest itself is a GRIFFEN a mythical creature with an eagle's head and wings and a lions body signifying immeasureable strength, agressiveness and vigilance.
No 9 Squadron
The story of No 9 Squadron dates back to May 44 when it made its operational debut in Burma during WWII. equipped with Hurricane IIC aircraft, it engaged in extensive operations in that theatre and was awarded a souvenir japanese generals "Samurai" sword in recognition of its meritourious services. in the years that followed, the squadron maintained itself in a high state of combat prepardness on a succession of latest fighter aircraft of that time; Spitfire VIII, Tempest II, Fury, Starfighter, Mirage and most recently the Fighting Falcon. Five of its OC's - M Asghar Khan, A Rahim Khan, Zafar A Chaudhry, Zulfiqar A Khan & Jamal A Khan - rose to lead the PAF.
Originally raised at Risalpur on 13 November 43, the squadron was alloted to the RPAF upon partition at the insistance of S/Ldr. M Asghar Khan who had commanded it in 1945 and was a member of the aorforce reconstitution committee in July 47. in its new capacity as the first fighter squadron of the RPAF, it was formed at Peshawar on 15 August 47 with 8 Tempest aircraft under the command of S/Ldr. M Ibrahim Khan. after flying Tempests for almost three years, the squadron converted on to the Hawker Fury fighters in July 50. in November 56 the unit moved to Kohat which was to become its home for the next five years. in 1961, the squadrons decade-long association with Furies as well as the piston-engine chapter came to an end.
In March 61 came the F-104 Starfighters - the ultimate in aircraft technology at that time. in the PAF, 9 squadron was the only receipiant of this awe-inspiring Mach 2 fighter which, through its sheer power and speed, struck terror in enemy ranks in both the India-Pak wars. the Starfighter after rendering valuable service for more than a decade faded out of pakistan skies in the early 70s.
No 9 Squadron re-emerged at Rafiqui in January 73 as a tactical attack unit, equipped with brand new Mirage V aircraft. on 15 June 77 it became a OCU with the task of converting pilots onto Mirage fighters. on 31 August 81, it moved to PAF Masroor and remained there till the middle of 1984. as an OCU the squadron graduated 15 conversion courses on Mirages and in June 84, the squadron changed its location once again and moved to Sargodha, where it was re-equipped with F-16 Fighting Falcons and was redesignated No 9 Multi-Role squadron. it was on this aircraft that S/Ldr. Hameed Qadri shot down an Afghan AF SU-22 and damaged another while flying an Air-Defence mission over Parachinar on 17 July 86.
No 9 squadrons record in war has been as striking as its achievements in peace time. in the 65 war it flew air defence, fighter escort and recce missions from the city of Shaheens on its fabled Starfighters. on 6 September, F/Lt. Aftab shot down an IAF Mystere which was attacking Rahwali. on 7 September F/Lt. Amjad H. Khan accounted for another Mystere. S/Ldr. Jamal A Khan intercepted and shot down a IAF Canberra at night. for their acts of valour S/Ldr.s Jamal A Khan and ML Middlecoat and F/Lt. Amjad H Khan were decorated with Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC).
Soon after the start of the 71 war the Squadron flew its Starfighters to PAF Masroor. there while flying air defence day/night strikes , recce and escort duties, its pilots shot down an IAF Gnat, SU-7 and an Alize. S/Ldr. Amjad H Khan ejected in indian territory while attacking a radar and was taken PoW. W/Cmdr. ML Middlecoat and F/Lt. Samad Changezi made the supreme sacrifice of laying down their lives in defence of the fatherland. both Shaheeds were posthumously awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (=DFC).
For its meritorious services in war and peace, the squadron was awarded the squadron colour on 25 January 79. the scrolls around the squadron crest in the middle of the banner carry the battle honours "Sargodha 65" and "Karachi 71". the squadron crest itself is a GRIFFEN a mythical creature with an eagle's head and wings and a lions body signifying immeasureable strength, agressiveness and vigilance.
air marshal
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fatman17
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The information is updated till end 1988. i would request members to update the squadron information with current status, a/c, ops, squadron commanders etc.
No 10 Squadron
With the induction of B-57 bombers in the PAF, an operational conversion unit was raised at Mauripur on 15 August 59, to train pilots and navigator-bombardiers for the No 8 B-57 Squadron. the training unit was named No 10 Squadron and it carried out its assigned task for a little over 6 months.
In March 60, a second operational squadron No 7, was formed, which together with its sister unit No 8 constituted No 31 Wing. consequent upon this development, No 10 squadron was number-plated on 1 March 60.
No 10 Squadron
With the induction of B-57 bombers in the PAF, an operational conversion unit was raised at Mauripur on 15 August 59, to train pilots and navigator-bombardiers for the No 8 B-57 Squadron. the training unit was named No 10 Squadron and it carried out its assigned task for a little over 6 months.
In March 60, a second operational squadron No 7, was formed, which together with its sister unit No 8 constituted No 31 Wing. consequent upon this development, No 10 squadron was number-plated on 1 March 60.
x_man
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No 8 Squadron is the only specialised air-sea squadron right now in service with PAFs..Due to the nature of mission, the pilots wear Orange flying coveralls for better spotability in sea incase if they have to eject in sea...Few snaps from the unit..
fatman17
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No 8 Squadron is the only specialised air-sea squadron right now in service with PAFs..Due to the nature of mission, the pilots wear Orange flying coveralls for better spotability in sea incase if they have to eject in sea...Few snaps from the unit..
hey x_man, there is a woman member on this sqdn. is she a pilot too?
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