Growing global interest in PAF after historic May 7 air battle

ISLAMABAD: Following its historic feat on the night of May 6-7, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has witnessed a surge in international interest.

According to sources, multiple countries have extended invitations for joint air exercises, while numerous embassies in Islamabad have requested meetings with senior PAF officials to explore future defence collaborations, The News has learnt.

In what is now being described as the largest modern air battle, Pakistan successfully shot down six Indian fighter jets — including the much-vaunted Rafale — in a high-stakes encounter that involved 72 Indian aircraft against 42 from Pakistan. This decisive outcome, achieved through advanced electronic warfare and strategic precision rather than traditional combat, showcased the PAF’s growing technological edge.

At the heart of this success was the Chinese-built J-10C fighter jet, deployed by Pakistan for the first time in a major conflict. Its performance has drawn global attention, with military observers praising its radar, missile capabilities and integration within PAF’s broader aerial strategy.

A well-placed source revealed that several embassies have contacted the PAF, with defence attachés expressing interest in learning how the mission was executed and what opportunities may exist for strategic collaboration. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have already invited Pakistan to participate in upcoming international air exercises.

While China’s aviation industry has been thrust into the spotlight due to the performance of

J-10C, Chinese officials are reportedly equally intrigued by how Pakistan integrated indigenous technologies and tactics to deliver a decisive blow to the Indian Air Force. This shared success is expected to deepen bilateral defense ties, particularly under projects like the JF-17 Thunder.

Co-developed by China and Pakistan, the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet is a symbol of this enduring partnership. It is jointly produced by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAC) and Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) in Kamra. Approximately 58 percent of the airframe is produced in Pakistan, with final assembly also taking place domestically. The aircraft has already gained traction in the international market, with Myanmar and Nigeria among its operators. In 2024, Pakistan signed a landmark deal to export the JF-17 Block III to Azerbaijan—marking a significant milestone in its defence export strategy.

The Pakistan-India airbattle continues to dominate global headlines. International media outlets have weighed in, recognising the scale and implications of the confrontation. The Daily Telegraph praised the bravery of Indian pilots but noted that they were “technologically outmaneuvered” by the PAF. CNN called it the “largest airbattle in modern history,” while Reuters reported that it may soon be taught as a case study by advanced air forces in the United States and China.