By Major (R) Haroon Rasheed – Defence & Strategic Analyst
Group Captain (Retd.) Saif-ul-Azam is not just a name in Pakistan’s aviation history — he is a legend whose courage, skill, and unmatched combat record have earned him international recognition. A decorated war hero, Saif-ul-Azam remains the only fighter pilot in history credited with shooting down aircraft from three different air forces — Israeli, Indian, and, indirectly, American-supplied aircraft flown by Arab adversaries.
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Early Life and Career
Born in 1941 in Pabna (then British India, now Bangladesh), Saif-ul-Azam joined the Pakistan Air Force and graduated from the PAF Academy Risalpur in 1960. His natural flying ability and exceptional aerial combat skills soon made him one of the finest pilots of his generation.
Combat in the Middle East: Arab-Israel War (1967)
In the mid-1960s, Saif-ul-Azam was sent on deputation to Jordan as part of Pakistan’s military cooperation with Arab nations. When the Six-Day War between Israel and Arab nations erupted in June 1967, he volunteered to fight on behalf of the Arabs.
He flew combat missions for both the Royal Jordanian Air Force and later the Iraqi Air Force. In a matter of days, he shot down at least four Israeli aircraft — including Mirages and Vautours — over Jordan and Iraq. These kills were confirmed by international observers and are part of official records.
His incredible feat earned him gallantry awards from Jordan, Iraq, and Syria, making him one of the most celebrated foreign pilots in the Arab world.
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1971 Indo-Pak War: Defending the Homeland
After returning to Pakistan, Saif-ul-Azam continued his distinguished career in the PAF. During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, he once again demonstrated his brilliance by shooting down an Indian Air Force aircraft — this time defending his own country.
This set a unique and unmatched record in aerial combat history: shooting down aircraft from three different air forces — Israeli, Indian, and those allied with the United States — all while serving under four different air forces.
Awards and Recognition
Saif-ul-Azam received multiple military decorations including
Sitara-i-Jurat (Star of Courage) – One of Pakistan’s highest military honors
Jordanian Order of Independence
Iraqi Medal of Bravery
Syrian Medal of Courage
In 2020, the U.S.-based “HistoryNet” recognized him as “One of the 22 most successful fighter pilots of all time”, cementing his global reputation as an air combat legend.
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Later Life and Legacy
Following his retirement from the PAF, Saif-ul-Azam served in civil aviation and later returned to Bangladesh, where he held senior government positions. Despite the complexities of political history, his heroics are respected across borders — a testament to the unifying power of bravery and professional excellence.
He passed away in June 2020, leaving behind a legacy that transcends nationality and politics.
Conclusion
Group Captain Saif-ul-Azam’s story is one of rare courage, skill, and dedication. He remains a symbol of Pakistan’s proud military tradition and an icon of aerial warfare. His record of downing enemy aircraft from three different nations remains unmatched in the history of modern air combat — a feat that places him among the greatest fighter pilots the world has ever known.
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Major (R) Haroon Rasheed is a retired officer of the Pakistan Army and a defense analyst focusing on South Asian strategic affairs and emerging military technologies.
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