On this day, March 2, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pays solemn tribute to the memory of Air Commodore Rais Ahmed Rafi, Sitara-e-Jurat, Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military), on his death anniversary. A legendary bomber pilot and combat leader, Air Cdre Rafi’s exploits in the 1965 and 1971 Wars remain a testament to the surgical precision and iron resolve of Pakistan’s strike capabilities.
*Today in History*
On 02 March, we mark the death anniversary of Air Cdre Rais Ahmed Rafi, SJ, SI(M) — a fearless bomber pilot, inspiring commander and one of the bravest combat leaders in the history of Pakistan Air Force. During the 1965 War, as OC No 8 Squadron, then Sqn Ldr… pic.twitter.com/KeQY92lTrv
— DGPR (AIR FORCE) (@DGPR_PAF) March 2, 2026
Architect of the Strike Force: 1965 War In 1965, as the Officer Commanding of the elite No. 8 Squadron, then-Sqn Ldr Rafi was instrumental in transforming his unit into a razor-sharp night-strike force. He personally pioneered and led high-risk, low-level bombing raids against heavily defended Indian airbases, including Jamnagar, Adampur, Halwara, and Pathankot.
His most celebrated feat occurred on September 20, 1965, during a daring low-level “skip-bombing” mission against Ambala Airfield, located deep within enemy territory. Navigating through a wall of radar-guided anti-aircraft fire, he delivered his payload with devastating accuracy. For this act of conspicuous gallantry, he was awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat (SJ).
Relentless Valor: The 1971 Campaign Returning to the frontlines in 1971 as a Wing Commander with No. 7 Squadron, Rafi spearheaded a series of perilous night strikes against Amritsar, Pathankot, and Sirsa. Despite the evolution of enemy radar networks and intensified “ack-ack” (anti-aircraft) defenses, his leadership ensured that every mission was executed with precision, significantly disrupting the adversary’s operational tempo.
A Legacy of Command Beyond his tactical brilliance in the cockpit, Air Cdre Rafi was a visionary commander. He led the No. 31 Bomber Wing and held vital staff appointments, representing Pakistan with distinction on the international stage. In recognition of his long and meritorious service, he was decorated with the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military).
Today, as the PAF engages in Operation Ghazab-lil-Haqq, the legacy of Air Cdre Rais Ahmed Rafi continues to inspire modern air warriors. His life remains a beacon of courage, proving that even in the face of overwhelming odds, a determined pilot can tilt the scales of war.
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