The federal cabinet has decided to extend the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, acknowledging his role in ensuring national security during Operation Bunyanum Mursoos that was launched after Indian missiles attack.
The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism by shooting down five Indian fighter jets in retaliation for India’s missile strike.
The downed aircraft included three Rafale jets, one MiG-29, one SU-series aircraft, and an Israeli-made Heron combat drone. The jets were shot down in multiple locations, including Bhatinda, Jammu, Akhnoor, Srinagar, and Avantipur.
Read More: French intelligence official confirms downing of Rafale by Pakistan
In recognition of his operational excellence during Operation Bunyan al-Marsoos, the government has approved the extension of tenure for PAF Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, honoring his continued leadership in safeguarding national airspace and strengthening aerial… pic.twitter.com/kYjcFgWNVM
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) May 20, 2025
The decision to extend the service of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu was made during a meeting of the federal cabinet on Tuesday chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.
In a unanimous move, the federal government extended the service of Air Chief Marshal Sidhu, whose tenure was nearing completion.
The cabinet also decided to honour military personnel, war veterans, martyrs, and civilians from various sectors with high state awards in recognition of their services during the Operation Bunyanum Mursoos.
On Tuesday, the Federal Cabinet approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal. This recognition is a testament to his exceptional leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the subsequent period of conflict against… pic.twitter.com/6bFIepXYMk
— PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 20, 2025
Earlier, the federal cabinet approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of field marshal.
The cabinet recounted that on the night of May 6-7, India launched an “unprovoked and unjustified” assault on Pakistan, targeting civilian areas, including women and children. “The Indian military’s attack was a blatant violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the cabinet noted.
The armed forces, under General Munir’s leadership, responded with exemplary courage and coordination, said statement. The PM lauded COAS Asim Munir for demonstrating “exceptional military leadership, bravery, and strategic command.”
In recognition of his gallant defence of the homeland and leadership that ensured Pakistan’s sovereignty, the cabinet has approved PM Shehbaz’s recommendation to promote General Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal.
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