Wing Commander Malik Rizwanul Haq received national recognition as President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decorated Pakistan Air Force pilots at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
At the ceremony, the prime minister paid special tribute and awarded Tamgha-e-Basalat to Rizwanul Haq for destroying the Russian-made S-400 air defence system during May’s conflict with India.
“He destroyed the S-400 system,” the prime minister told the audience, drawing loud applause.
Wing Commander Malik Rizwanul Haq earns Tamgha-e-Basalat for S-400 strike during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos
This was the first public appearance of the airmen since their missions in May, when PAF pilots downed six Indian fighter jets, including Rafales, and neutralised a key air defence asset.
Their recognition on Independence Day turned the spotlight on the skill, planning and discipline behind those operations.
Rizwanul Haq’s award highlighted the precision required to locate, target and destroy a system designed to deny airspace.
Officials framed the achievement as a message of confidence: Pakistan seeks peace, but its air force has the capability and training to protect national sovereignty when required.
The ceremony also underlined teamwork.
While individual gallantry was honoured, leaders noted that mission success depends on coordinated planning, intelligence, and support across units.
The audience response; applause, chants and a standing welcome reflected public pride in the “silent professionals” who delivered under pressure.
For families and young cadets watching, the moment was both tribute and lesson.
Professionalism, steady nerves and rigorous training remain the core of deterrence.
The government said the honours recognise service beyond duty and signal continued support for modernisation and readiness.
