PAF Honors the Legacy of Flt Lt Samad Ali Changezi Shaheed (SJ)

On this day, March 1, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and the nation celebrate the birth anniversary of Flight Lieutenant Samad Ali Changezi Shaheed, Sitara-e-Jurat, a legendary Starfighter pilot whose heroism during the 1971 Indo-Pak War remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s aerial history.

A Fearless Guardian of the Southern Skies

Serving with the elite No. 9 Squadron, Flt Lt Changezi was a relentless volunteer for high-risk Combat Air Patrol (CAP) missions. Despite having limited experience on the demanding F-104 Starfighter—the world’s first Mach 2-capable interceptor—he demonstrated an extraordinary level of aggression and professionalism. Over the course of the conflict, he flew 11 operational sorties, playing a pivotal role in the destruction of an enemy radar station and the damaging of multiple hostile aircraft.

The Final Dogfight: December 12, 1971

The defining moment of Changezi’s career occurred in the skies near Hyderabad. While on a CAP mission, he and his formation leader intercepted two intruding IAF MiG-21s that had violated Pakistani airspace. Engaging at supersonic speeds, Changezi skillfully maneuvered his Starfighter into a “decisive 6 o’clock position” for a kill.

Driven by an unwavering offensive spirit, he remained locked on his target, unaware that a second adversary had maneuvered onto his own tail. As he pressed the attack to ensure the destruction of the enemy, his aircraft was struck by a Sidewinder missile. Flt Lt Samad Ali Changezi embraced Shahadat (martyrdom) mid-air, defending the sovereignty of the nation until his final breath.

Posthumous Honors and Eternal Legacy

In recognition of his “conspicuous gallantry, offensive spirit, and supreme sacrifice,” the Government of Pakistan awarded him the Sitara-e-Jurat (SJ) posthumously. Today, the PAF remembers him not only as a master of the “Sled” (F-104) but as an inspiration for the current generation of air warriors currently guarding the frontiers during Operation Ghazab-lil-Haqq.

His story remains a shining chapter in the annals of the Pakistan Air Force, embodying the motto: “A Second to None.”