On Sunday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif submitted a summary to President Asif Ali Zardari, suggesting a one-year extension for Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu, the esteemed four-star officer and 16th Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), was originally set to retire on March 18, with his tenure coming to a close.
Taking the helm on March 19, 2021, succeeding ACM Mujahid Anwar Khan, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu has demonstrated remarkable leadership throughout his tenure.
In accordance with military protocol, the appointment of the Chief of Air Staff is a pivotal role held by an Air Chief Marshal in the PAF. This appointment is made by the Prime Minister of Pakistan and confirmed by the President, underscoring its significance in the nation’s defense framework.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu’s professional journey is characterized by unwavering dedication and excellence. Joining the PAF’s GD (Pilot) branch in 1986 as a fighter pilot, he has served in various capacities across fighter squadrons, operational airbases, and regional commands.
His commitment to continuous learning led him to attend prestigious institutions such as the Combat Commanders School, Air War College, and Royal College of Defense Studies in the United Kingdom, further honing his strategic acumen and leadership prowess.
With a diverse portfolio within the PAF, including roles as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff for Operations Research and Development, Assistant Chief of Air Staff for Training Officers, Director-General of Projects at Air Headquarters Islamabad, and additional secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu has exhibited exceptional versatility and capability.
In acknowledgment of his outstanding service, Air Chief Marshal Sidhu has been honored with the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military) and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Military) awards, underscoring his invaluable contributions to national defense.
