SOURCE: AFI
On Pakistan Day, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) released a stirring promotional video paying tribute to the resilience and spirit of the entire Pakistani nation. The video, a blend of patriotic fervor and military pride, showcased the PAF’s dedication to defending the country’s skies. However, amidst the grandeur of the tribute, a subtle yet telling detail emerged—evidence of the PAF’s persistent preoccupation with the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Su-30MKI, a formidable multirole fighter jet that continues to dominate discussions within Pakistan’s military circles.
The promo video featured a segment with Squadron Leader and an instructor from the PAF’s 9 Griffins Squadron briefing their team ahead of a planned sortie. What caught the eye of keen observers was the presence of a scaled-down model of the IAF’s Su-30MKI in their hands during the briefing. This wasn’t a mere prop—it was a clear indication that the PAF’s training and tactical planning remain heavily centered on devising counter-strategies to tackle this Russian-origin aircraft, affectionately nicknamed “Rambha” by Indian forces. The inclusion of the Su-30MKI model underscores how deeply the aircraft has embedded itself in the PAF’s operational psyche.
The Su-30MKI, a twin-engine, supermaneuverable fighter, has long been a cornerstone of the IAF’s air superiority. With its advanced avionics, long-range weaponry, and ability to perform a wide array of missions—from air-to-air combat to precision ground strikes—it’s no surprise that the PAF views it as a primary threat. The aircraft’s combat record, including its role in the 2019 Balakot airstrike and subsequent skirmishes, has only amplified its reputation. During the February 27, 2019, aerial engagement, the PAF’s F-16s fired AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles at IAF Su-30MKIs, forcing them into defensive maneuvers—though Indian sources maintain none were shot down, a claim Pakistan disputes. This encounter, among others, seems to have left a lasting impression on PAF strategists.
In the Pakistan Day video, the 9 Griffins Squadron’s focus on the Su-30MKI model suggests that their Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) are tailored specifically to neutralize this adversary. The briefing likely involved simulations or scenarios where PAF pilots practiced outmaneuvering or outgunning the Su-30MKI, leveraging their own assets like the F-16s or JF-17 Thunders. The use of such a detailed scale model indicates a hands-on approach to understanding the jet’s capabilities—its radar range, missile loadout, and agility—all critical to crafting effective countermeasures.
This obsession isn’t new. The PAF has historically oriented its training around IAF platforms, with the Su-30MKI emerging as a focal point in recent years due to its growing numbers and upgrades in the Indian fleet. Joint exercises with allies, such as the Sino-Pak “Shaheen” drills with China, have also reportedly included simulations against Su-30 variants, allowing the PAF to refine its tactics against similar aircraft. The prominence of the Su-30MKI in the Pakistan Day promo subtly reinforces this narrative: even in a moment of national celebration, the PAF’s lens remains fixed on its eastern rival.
While the tribute video aimed to inspire unity and pride among Pakistanis, the glimpse into the 9 Griffins’ briefing room offered a rare peek into the PAF’s strategic mindset. It’s a reminder that beyond the pomp and patriotism, the force is diligently preparing for potential aerial showdowns. The Su-30MKI, with its imposing presence, continues to loom large—not just in the skies over the subcontinent, but in the planning rooms of Pakistan’s air warriors. For the PAF, countering this IAF juggernaut isn’t just a tactical exercise; it’s a mission that shapes their identity as they stand guard over the nation.
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