India’s well-known defense analyst, Pravin Sawhney, has openly criticised the Indian Air Force while praising the leadership of Pakistan Air Force’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. He especially lauded the training of Pakistani pilots, calling it exemplary.
Pravin Sawhney stated that the Pakistan Air Force has surpassed the Indian Air Force in modern warfare strategy, training, and technology. He acknowledged that in terms of pilot skill and preparedness, the PAF has proven to be highly professional and effective.
He further said that the Pakistan Air Force is ahead of the Indian Air Force technically, intellectually, and operationally. In particular, PAF has demonstrated superiority in pilot training, exercises, and operational readiness.
In an analysis Pravin Sawhney said that the skill and confidence shown by Pakistani pilots reflects not only hands-on experience but also high-level training and strong leadership.
He praised the policies and leadership of the current PAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Baber Sidhu, stating that he has not only aligned the Pakistan Air Force with modern requirements but has also led it into a new era of ideological clarity, technological advancement, and strategic warfare.
According to him, there were four key elements that supported the Pakistan Air Force in the war against India: its hardware, its software, support from PLA’s non-kinetic capabilities, and the top-tier training received by PAF pilots.
He remarked that the level of preparedness shown by the PAF today is not only admirable within the region but also serves as a model for global air forces.
Sawhney noted that although India had support from countries like Israel, the United States, and Russia during the conflict, the world witnessed what the PAF achieved. Behind that success was the rigorous training of the Pakistan Air Force and the strategic vision of Zaheer Baber Sidhu.
He concluded by saying that the PAF is no longer just a conventional defense institution, but a well-organized and modern air power capable of handling any challenge. The acknowledgment by an analyst from a rival country is not only an honor for Pakistan but also a testament to the growing professional reputation of the Pakistan Air Force on the global stage.
