Mujahid Anwar Khan, NI(C), NI(M), HI(M), SI(M), TI(M)
Mujahid Anwar Khan, NI(C), NI(M), HI(M), SI(M), TI(M)
Pride of ICB | Former Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force
At ICBian.com, we proudly honor the distinguished military service of Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) Mujahid Anwar Khan, a true patriot, a decorated air warrior, and one of the finest sons of Islamabad College for Boys (ICB). As the 15th Chief of Air Staff of the Pakistan Air Force, he has etched his name into the annals of national defense and strategic brilliance.
From the classrooms of ICB to the command centers of Pakistan’s air power, Mujahid Anwar Khan exemplifies the values of courage, excellence, and leadership that our institution holds dear.
1. Leadership at the Helm of the PAF
Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan took over the command of the Pakistan Air Force on 19 March 2018, succeeding ACM Sohail Aman. His tenure was marked by strategic foresight, operational preparedness, and an unwavering focus on maintaining the air superiority of Pakistan.
Under his command, the PAF successfully navigated one of the most high-stakes defense engagements in recent history, solidifying Pakistan’s air defense credibility on the global stage.
2. A Journey of Dedication and Excellence
Hailing from a Punjabi Rajput Sulehria family originally from Zafarwal, Mujahid Anwar Khan was commissioned into the General Duty (Pilot) Branch of the PAF in December 1983. Over a storied career, he commanded:
A fighter squadron
A flying wing
Two operational air bases – PAF Base Shahbaz and PAF Base Mushaf
A regional air command
His experience at all levels of leadership has deeply influenced the operational strategies and modernization of the Pakistan Air Force.
3. Academic and Strategic Mastery
Committed to professional excellence, Mujahid Anwar Khan is a graduate of:
Combat Commanders’ School
Command and Staff College, Jordan
National Defence University, Islamabad
He also holds a master’s degree in War Studies and Defence Management, equipping him with a solid strategic foundation to lead in times of peace and conflict.
4. High-Level Appointments and Strategic Roles
Throughout his tenure, Mujahid Anwar Khan held key appointments, shaping policies and operations at the highest levels of the PAF:
Personal Staff Officer to the Chief of Air Staff
Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Operations)
Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (Operations & Support)
Director General C4I
Director General, Air Force Strategic Command
He has flown a variety of aircraft including the F-16, F-6, FT-5, T-37, and MFI-17 Mushshak, showcasing his technical expertise and operational versatility.
5. Decorations and Global Recognition
For his meritorious services, he has been awarded the highest military and civil honors in Pakistan:
Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military)
Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Civilian)
Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military)
Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military)
Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Military)
He is also a proud recipient of the Turkish Legion of Merit, a testament to his contributions to international military cooperation.
6. Operation Swift Retort – A Defining Moment
One of the most defining chapters in his career came during the 2019 India–Pakistan border skirmishes, where he led the Pakistan Air Force in Operation Swift Retort. On 27 February 2019, under his command, the PAF conducted airstrikes across the Line of Control in response to Indian aggression.
The operation displayed Pakistan’s readiness, precision, and resolve. It resulted in the capture of Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman and highlighted the tactical superiority of Pakistan’s air defense. The mission became a symbol of national pride and a strategic victory under his leadership.
7. Commitment to Humanity
Even after retirement, Mujahid Anwar Khan continues to serve humanity. In 2024, he was appointed as the Global Goodwill Ambassador for Niaz Support, a social enterprise that provides customized wheelchairs for individuals with disabilities—a role that reflects his compassion and dedication to social impact.
At Islamabad College for Boys, we stand immensely proud of Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan—a man whose career has inspired generations, safeguarded the skies of Pakistan, and upheld the values that ICBians strive to live by.
ICB salutes Mujahid Anwar Khan – a fearless aviator, visionary leader, and an ICBian in the truest sense.
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