PAF Squadron History

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DGPR (AIR FORCE)
@DGPR_PAF

Today in HistoryRaised on 01 August 1960 at PAF Base Masroor, No 8 Squadron “Haiders” began a legacy forged in precision, resilience and offensive air power. Named after Hazrat Ali (RA), “Haider” embodies courage, strength and unwavering resolve, virtues that have defined the Squadron since its establishment.

Beginning with B-57 light bombers, the Squadron soon earned a place in PAF's history through unmatched professionalism and combat spirit.

On 27 October 1964, alongside No 7 Squadron, Haiders made history by performing the world’s first bomber formation loop, with four B-57s in diamond formation. During the 1965 war, serving under No 31 Bomber Wing, the Squadron flew 167 combat sorties and dropped nearly 600 tons of bombs on Jamnagar, Adampur, Jodhpur, Pathankot, Halwara and Srinagar, carrying out relentless day and night strikes with exceptional precision and resolve.

Number plated on 01 May 1970 and reformed on 06 March 1982, the Squadron returned with Mirage-V PA2/3 aircraft and later earned the prestigious “Colour” in December 2003 for distinguished night operations.

Today, transitioning from Mirage to JF-17 Thunder Block III, No 8 Multi-Role Squadron stands as a sharp, relentless spearhead of Pakistan’s air power, an enduring Force whose legacy is not merely remembered, but revered in the skies.

 

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Today in History

Raised on 30 August 1967, No 26 Squadron “Black Spiders” has evolved through generations of aircraft and roles into a formidable multi-role unit of Pakistan Air Force, distinguished by its enduring commitment to operational excellence, training and national defence.

Originally established at Masroor for operational training of fighter pilots on the F-86, the Squadron trained over 400 Pakistani pilots and 150 student pilots from other Islamic nations during its formative years.

During the 1971 War, No 26 Squadron flew more than 300 sorties in Air Defence, Counter-Air and Close Support roles, repeatedly striking enemy air bases at Srinagar and Avantipura and achieving seven aerial kills and two enemy aircraft damaged.

Re-equipped with F-6s in 1980 and A-5IIIs in 1984, the Squadron was awarded its Squadron Colour in 1982 in recognition of its distinguished service. In February 2010, No 26 Squadron embarked on a new chapter, welcoming the induction of the JF-17 Thunder.

With this cutting-edge fighter, the Squadron transformed its operational profile, embracing the power and versatility of a modern multi-role combat platform.

Today, as “Defenders of the North,” No 26 Squadron stands at the forefront of combat readiness—sharpening the skills of PAF’s young fighter pilots and forging the next generation of air warriors.

Carrying forward a proud legacy forged in combat and transformed through innovation, the Squadron remains steadfast in its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the skies of Pakistan.