'Pakistan to send astronauts into space in two years'

Addressing AirTech’17 conference, air chief discloses China is also assisting in next generation aircraft project

Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman has announced that Pakistan will be able to send astronauts into space with the collaboration of China in the next two years.

He was addressing the inauguration session of AirTech’17 conference, hosted by Air University in Islamabad on Thursday, according to a statement issued by Pakistan Air force (PAF).

AirTech’17 is the country's largest technical and scientific Olympiad, being held at the main campus of Air University from December 7 to 10.

The air chief disclosed that Pakistan was currently working to manufacture next generation aircraft with the support of Chinese experts, adding that China was also providing technical support to Pakistan for launching the satellite programme.



Pakistan annually manufactures 16 to 20 JF-17 aircraft, which are much better than F-16 planes in performance, said Aman.

Commenting over importance of national defence, he said Pakistan was on right track to curb terrorism and emphasised that security, stability and prosperity were interlinked in today’s world.

The air chief, in his keynote address on “Leadership, Education & Society Development”, said the purpose of an education system must be to introduce latest technologies and contribute something positive for the betterment of society as a whole.

He also urged the importance of industry-academia cooperation.

“No doubt, Pakistani students are talented, intelligent and hard-working but to achieve success in life goals, unconditional faith, firm commitment and tireless struggle are essential,” he emphasised.