The Pakistan Day Military parade, a hallmark event in the nation's calendar, was held at Parade Avenue in Islamabad, showcasing the exemplary professionalism and military prowess of the three wings of the armed forces.
The grand event commenced with a solemn rendition of the national anthem, setting the stage for a display of unity and strength. President Asif Ali Zardari, accompanied by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, observed the parade from a jeep, symbolizing leadership and solidarity. The services chiefs and other prominent figures also attended the parade.
The chief guest of the parade was Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud, underlining the strong bilateral ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
#Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud is the the chief guest at #PakistanDay's special military parade.#SamaaTV pic.twitter.com/H87CXejiDj
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) March 23, 2024
The ceremony dazzled spectators with a breathtaking flypast, featuring a diverse array of fighter jets from the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy. Among the aircraft showcased were the newly inducted J-10 C, the indigenously built JF-17 Thunder, F-16, and Mirage fighter jets, along with AWACs, P-3C Orion, and ATR aircraft.
First glimpse of FATAH-II 400 km range guided multiple launch rocket system from Pakistan Day Parade. It has high speed, unique trajectory that can evade any enemy air defence system.
— M. (@rantcrafts) March 23, 2024
In addition, 450km range FATAH-III was also announced.
#PakistanDay #Moscow pic.twitter.com/D2obfgrzHq
The flypast showcased the agility and capability of Pakistan's air fleet, with demonstrations by Mirage and JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. The F16 fighter jets flew past under the leadership of Wing Commander Hasan Siddiqui, as well as F7PG Cheetah fighter aircraft. The showcase also featured the modern fighter jet J10C, the transport aircraft of Pakistan Air Force C130, planes equipped with the latest spying system and a spectacular flypast of anti-submarine warfare aircraft of Pakistan Navy.
The jets also presented breathtaking aerobatics, spreading a range of colours in the skies.
Pakistan Day Celebration: The #Flypast showcased the might of #PakistanAirForce and #Navy.#SamaaTV #PakistanDay pic.twitter.com/tmbUEWVvqZ
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) March 23, 2024
Contingents of the Pakistan Army, navy, air force, Special Services Group, Frontier Corps, Rangers, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police and Gilgit-Baltistan Scouts presented a march past, saluting the chief guest and the guests of honour.
Moreover, tanks, armoured personnel carriers, rocket launchers, air defense system, guns, UAVs, short and long range missiles Ra'ad, Nasr, Babur, Shaheen, Ghauri and Ababeel were showcased on the occasion. The engineering corps also presented its state-of-the-art equipment.
The parade also featured showcases of the helicopters of the Pakistan Army, navy and air force.
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s contingent also marched at the Pakistan Day parade. The Azerbaijan Army contingent also marched proudly during the parade, celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries.
Floats depicting the cultures of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and the four provinces were also part of the parade. The skydivers of the Special Services Group exhibited a free fall from 10,000 feet, carrying national flags and those of the services.
Later, the national flag was presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The parade culminated with presentation of a special song, 'Poochay jo naam koi tum Pakistan batana'.
The Pakistan Day Military parade serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's unity, resilience, and determination to defend its sovereignty. As the festivities continue, the event stands as a testament to Pakistan's commitment to peace, security, and progress.
Security in Islamabad
In Islamabad, major roads, including the Islamabad Expressway and Murree Road were closed to traffic from Khanna Bridge to Zero Point and Nawaz Sharif Park, respectively as the Pakistan Day parade was underway. Additionally, IJP Road was shut down from Double Road Chowk to Faizabad.
The army assumed control of traffic management, ensuring the smooth execution of events. To maintain security, mobile phone services were partially suspended in Rawalpindi until 2pm.
As the day unfolds, Pakistan Day serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's journey towards independence and the collective resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and prosperity. Amidst celebrations and reflections, the spirit of unity and dedication to the nation's progress resonates strongly among Pakistanis nationwide.
