ISLAMABAD: Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said on Thursday that the role of Pakistan Air Force had been critical in the war on terror.Speaking as chief guest at a re-equipment ceremony of No 5 Squadron of Pakistan Air Force held at the Shahbaz PAF Base in Jacobabad, he said: “Pakistan Army fully appreciates the high level of professionalism displayed by the PAF in all counter-terrorist operations.”

According to a press release issued by the PAF here, the army chief said: “As you know, Pakistan is at war with terrorists who have disrupted peace and stability in the region and threatened our way of life. Pakistan Armed Forces have been battling these elements since 2004.

These operations have been conducted through unprecedented close cooperation and support of the PAF.”

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman said the first decade of 21 century had seen the PAF transforming into a modern and versatile force.

“Our focus has shifted from the traditional threat-based development to development based on capabilities enhancement. Our effort has been to cover the entire spectrum of air warfare to counter all internal as well as external challenges.”

The air force chief reaffirmed that the PAF would always provide effective support to the land forces in their operations both against internal and external enemies.

“With the induction of Block 52 F-16s, AEW, aerial re-fuellers and a multi-layered air defence system, the PAF now has the capability to respond to various threats being faced by nation, with efficiency and safety,” he said.

“We have a mission to maintain peace with honour in this volatile region in these uncertain times. It is PAF's commitment to the nation that despite all odds, our resolve to defend the country shall remain unshakable. Whenever required, we will employ our assets, including these F-16s, to defend our nation and its freedom, against any aggressor, be it external or internal,” the air chief said.