SARGODHA- Army Chief General Raheel Sharif has said that newly re-equipped inducted F-16 Jets would enhance the capability of Pakistan Air Force.
He was addressing a handing over ceremony of F-16 Jet held in Sargodha today. Army Chief General Raheel Sharif was the chief guest. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has re-equipped fourth Squadron with state-of-the art aircraft F-16s . The Army Chief congratulated the PAF on the induction of new F-16 jet fighters. He said that PAF had always fulfilled people's expectations.
The Army Chief added that PAF and Pak Army will fight side by side for the defense of the country. He said that Pakistan Army would combat any challenge along with PAF. Pakistan Air Force has re-equipped its fourth Squadron with state-of-the art F-16 jet planes. The Army Chief hailed operational and training capabilities of PAF.
“This day will be remembered as landmark even in history. This indictment will further strengthen the historic terms of Pakistan and Jordan,” said the COAS.
He said the fighter jets will help Pakistan’s Armed Forces effectively fight the war against terrorism and safeguard territorial integrity of the country. Addressing the function,  Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafiq Butt said that the induction of the F-16 jet fighters into PAF will enable it to cope with external and internal challenges more effectively. He thanked the Jordanian Air Force for the provision of F-16 jet fighters. He said PAF is ready to confront any foreign aggression.
Earlier, a smartly turned out contingent of 19th Squadron presented the general salute to the chief guest followed by parade. The Chief Guest transferred the Squadron flag to the new commander. As per tradition newly inducted F-16s presented a fly past followed by a stunning aerial display. It is worthy to note, that the aircrafts had been purchased at a minimal price from Royal Jordanian Air Force after series of negotiations held between concerned ministries and the concerted efforts of Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt.
Number 19 Squadron "Sherdils" was raised in 1958 at PAF Base Mauripur with 12 American origin F-86F Sabre Aircraft. During 1965 war, Number 19 Squadron, apart from other victories, has the unrivalled distinction of carrying out the first successful close air support mission at Wagha, and famous air strike at Pathankot airfield. It also has the honour of having six Sitara-e-Jurat.  In 1990, the Squadron was equipped with Pakistan's newly acquired Chinese F-7P interceptor aircraft and was converted into an Operational Conversion Unit in July 1991.