"After 1965 war, PAF had a thorough review of its operational bases and found out that 50% of its fighting assets were stationed at Sargodha complex alone, at which a lucky shot by Canbera bombers might have a disastrous effect in future ! Air Marshal Nur Khan ordered a green field new airbase after 3 workhorses ; Mauripur (Karachi)Sargodha Peshawar Original choice was Jhang city in Punjab but due to expensive land, it was shifted down south to dreary little town of Shorkot, which had railway junction and direct access to Sui gas pipeline + 220 KV electricity transmission line on multan-faisalabad section.It was named PAF base "Rafiqui" after outstanding fighter pilot Squardon Leader Sarfaraz Rafiqui, S.Jon his first anniversary in sep 1966. After the biggest firepower security at Jamrud range in nov 1967, No 23 squardon with F-6 activated this new eagles nest for two weeks and handed it over to care and maintenance unit (C&MU) with 1 officer and 20 airmen !Plessey AR-1 low level radar and dozens of bofors L-60 anti aircraft guns followed suit next year. Finally, in sep 1971 group captain syed zaheer Hussain was appointed first base commander and No. 17 squardon with F-86E sabres moved in from Masroor to make it operational permanently !2 IAF Su-7 fighter jets of No 32 sqn flying from amritsar to shorkot were shotdown by AAA guns on 4th & 5th dec strikes viz ;Flt Lt M.S Grewal (PoW)Flt Lt V V Tambay (KIA)Rafiqui also lost 2 sabre jets parked on open ground but dummies of F-6 painted on tarmac and wooden clones distracted bogeys and avoided shooting at real targets in pens ... B-57 bombers were also staged through to hit Agra airbase in U.P (deepest strike ever mounted by either side)On 6th Dec, IAF Canberas struck in force and cratered runway which was patched up after serious trouble of 3 days during intense bombardment from the air as many bombs fell haywire in nearby villages, killing many rural folks. Sabres flew relentlessly in Suleimanke sector and helped in close air support missions. That is how "baptism with fire" of 1971 ended of this youngest addition to PAF network !"
Following the 1965 war, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) undertook a comprehensive assessment of its operational bases, revealing that an alarming 50% of its fighting assets were located at the Sargodha complex. Given the vulnerabilities exposed by the war, Air Marshal Nur Khan recognized the need for strategic relocation and expansion of aerial assets. In a bid to ensure future safety and operational efficiency, plans were made to establish a new airbase.
Initially, Jhang in Punjab was considered for the new base; however, due to high land costs, the focus shifted south to the less-populated town of Shorkot. The selected site offered essential advantages, including a railway junction, direct access to the Sui gas pipeline, and a 220 KV electricity transmission line on the Multan-Faisalabad section. Named PAF Base Rafiqui after Squadron Leader Sarfaraz Rafiqui on the first anniversary of his demise in September 1966, this new base symbolized a significant step in strengthening PAF's operational capabilities.
The development of Rafiqui Airbase was pivotal for several strategic reasons. The inaugural security of firepower at the Jamrud range in November 1967 showcased the base's potential. Shortly thereafter, No. 23 Squadron, equipped with F-6 aircraft, occupied Rafiqui for expansive training and operational readiness. The addition of advanced radar systems and Bofors anti-aircraft guns solidified its defensive posture. This preparation was crucial as tensions escalated leading to the 1971 conflict.
In the wake of the war, Rafiqui's operational capabilities were put to the test. On December 4 and 5, IAF Sukhoi fighters attempted strikes on the airbase, but PAF's robust defenses led to the successful interception of enemy aircraft. Using deceptive tactics, such as dummies of F-6 aircraft on the tarmac, Rafiqui's defense forces were able to mislead enemy strikes, preserving essential assets. This critical thinking and resilience demonstrated the adaptability and resourcefulness of PAF personnel under pressure.
The establishment of Rafiqui Airbase and its subsequent operational readiness were noted by neighboring nations, illustrating a shift in the regional balance of air power. The aerial engagements not only reflected tactical advancements but also highlighted the growing importance of air superiority in modern warfare. These developments invited responses from various international stakeholders concerned about the escalating military capabilities in the region.
As the PAF continues to modernize its fleet and infrastructure in the years to come, the legacy of Rafiqui Airbase will remain a testament to strategic foresight and resilience. The lessons learned from its operational history will undoubtedly shape future military doctrines and air defense strategies. A continued commitment to innovation and adaptation will be essential for maintaining air security and sovereignty in Pakistan, ensuring that the sacrifices of past heroes inform the direction of its air force.
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