Pakistan Air Force Training

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Air Defence System School (ADSS)

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Air Defence System School (ADSS) is located at Lahore, the provincial capital and one of the most colorful cities of Pakistan. Role and Scope: The school is responsible for conducting basic and advance training courses for operational and maintenance nature for personnel deployed on air defence equipment. ​ ADSS has a selected team of experienced instructors (officers and airmen) who conduct ops and technical courses for PAF personnel and Foreign Trainees. The instructors follow different instructional techniques keeping in view the service experience of the students. For the basic courses, block building concept of instructions is followed in which system knowledge is imparted to the students with special emphasis on all safety procedures. Theory classes are conducted in environmentally controlled classrooms, where e-lessons are delivered on multimedia utilizing modern training aids. Students are finally tested through e-testing in order to assess their theoretical knowledge. As far as practical training is concerned, students are operationally and technically trained on GMCC, MPDRs and YLC6 sensors (including their related equipment). For this purpose equipment of co located Air Defence units is utilized. Trainees are thoroughly examined at each stage of their practical training for safe handling and maintenance of the systems. Brief History: Air Defence System School (ADSS) was established in 1978 at PAF Base, Lahore as Air Defence Modernization School (ADMS). Later, the school was renamed as Air Defence System School commonly known as ADSS and was shifted to PAF Walton Lahore in 1987. On 10th September, 2007, consequent to the shifting of HQ CAC to PAF Base Lahore, ADSS was re-located in the previous HQ CAC building at Kirana. The school conducts basic and advance training courses for operational and maintenance personnel on GMCC and high power Radars, communication, uninterrupted power supply systems, power generators and other equipment. Since its establishment, the school has trained over 10,000 personnel in its various courses including students from foreign countries. Courses Offered ​ ​ Pre-Requisites/ Experience Required Duration Frequency Major Subjects Covered Command Orientation Course Wg Cdr/Sqn Ldr with 15 to 20 year service 01 Week 02 per year Security, MT Management, Logistics and Accounting, Legal Procedures, Quality Assurance CRC/MPDR Cond Positional Course Sqn Ldr and Above 04 Weeks 02 per year MPDRs, Communication Equipment CRC/MPDR Positional Qualification Course Air Defence Controllers 09 Weeks 02 per year MPDRs, CRCs, Communication, GPS-50 MPDR, Field Maint Course Engg Officers and Technical Airmen 01 Weeks 01 per year MPDRs MPDR Theory Course One year experience on the system 10 Weeks 01 per year MPDRs CRC Field Main Course Technical Officers and Airmen 10 Weeks 02 per year Major assemblies of CRC CRC Depot Course (Theory) Technical staff having one year system experience and field Maint qualified 10 Weeks 01 per year Major assemblies of CRC CRC Comm Field Maint Course Technical staff and airmen 08 Weeks 03 per year Communication Sets Training at ADSS: Training at ADSS is a blend of theoretical and practical training. The students are given sufficient practical experience on the system. Every student is given separate hands on experience and it is ensured that they learn the system by interaction with the staff already working on the system. Examination Systems: Practical knowledge and training is of utmost importance at ADSS. Students are tested in the acquisition of practical knowledge. During tests, simulated problems are generated and solutions are sought from students. Students are thoroughly debriefed on their performance Instructional Methodology: Theory lessons are conducted through multimedia and OHPs in well-established classrooms. After initial weeks, practical training is made a regular part of daily routine. Medical Facilities: Proper medical treatment is provided to the trainees at the Medical Inspection Room of the Base. However, when required trainees are referred to upgraded hospitals also. Accommodation and Messing: Officers are accommodated in the well-furnished Officers Mess, Lahore while airmen are lodged in the equally good Airmen/SNCOs messes. Separate accommodation is provided to foreign students. Similarly, they are provided with special menus made with their consultation, so that it is made according to their tastes. Transportation: ADSS is located at 10 minutes drive from Lahore international airport. Lahore itself is linked to all other major cities through road/rail. Selection Procedure for Foreign Trainees: Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters' Training Branch, Pakistan Air Force for queries about induction of their trainees.​

 

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AIR DEFENCE TRAINING SCHOOL

Introduction

Air Defence Training School (ADTS) is situated at PAF Academy, Risalpur. It is the basic training institution for the Air Defence Controllers. Assimilation of Air defence in the main stream as an important corps, right at the onset of the training, has brought inter-branch harmony in PAF. The foundation of this premier institution as laid in 1975 since then it has trained large number of controllers including those from friendly countries.


Courses Offered

Air Defence Training school runs basic Air Defence Weapon Controllers course for cadets and officers of PAF and friendly Air Forces. This course is spread over a total duration of 24 weeks with frequency of two courses per year. Air Defence Training school conducts the Basic and other courses on Air Defence. The school carries out two basic Air Defence courses per year for PAF aviation cadets and conducts other Air Defence courses as and when directed by Air Headquarters and also conducts training courses for foreign students.


Training at ADTS

ADTS follows a three-pronged approach for imparting training to its students. Apart from instilling air defence professionalism and inculcating self-discipline and high moral standard it also nurtures leadership qualities and intellectual strength amongst its students. Apart from testing theoretical knowledge and practical tests, all students are categorized at the end to grade their standard achieved during training. Extensive use of simulators is employed.

 

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Pakistan Air Force Air War College (AWC)

Pakistan Air Force Air War College (AWC) is located in the busy and bustling city of Karachi. Its aim is to prepare selected officers for assumption of key command and staff appointments where they would be required to develop, manage and employ air power as a component of national security. History: PAF Air War College, formerly PAF Staff College, was founded in 1958. Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan formally inaugurated the college in January, 1959. However, the changing environment due to geo-strategic compulsions, rapid diffusion of high technology in modern warfare and the experiences of the two wars (1965, 1971), PAF realized the need for a higher institution, exclusively devoted to the study of war and related matters. As such, in 1987 the Staff College was upgraded to the Air War College. In 1993, Senior Command and Staff Course (SC&SC), having two components – correspondence course and resident course – was launched for mid-career PAF officers. Now, apart from the War Course, the college runs resident portion of SC&SC as well. Educational Philosophy: Professional development, career advancement and an understanding of the employment of air power form the core of the college curriculum. The training stresses upon the development of reasoning and judgment rather than on recall and retention Members are provided conceptual framework, intellectual tools and various forms to comprehend, analyse and critically evaluate air power as a component of national security. The curriculum is designed to develop insight, broaden mental horizon and increase the capacity to make correct decisions and formulate viable plans. Academic freedom encourages free discussion, uninhibited analysis and evaluation and originality of thought and expression. As such, a policy of non-attribution, whereby views expressed at the college remain confined to its portals. Is followed. Faculty: Faculty members of AWC highly qualified and experienced officers. They have vast field experience. Two professors from the University of Karachi, who are regular members of the Board of Studies, assist the faculty in the formulation of academic policies and programmes. Courses Offered: Air War Course:Senior Command and Staff Course has two components – 45-week correspondence course and 11-week resident course. It prepares mid-career PAF officers for assuming command and staff assignments commensurate with their rank and experience. Senior Command and Staff Course: The Air War Course of 45-week duration prepares senior PAF, Pak Navy, Pak Army and allied officers for senior command and staff appointments. Course contents: Strategic doctrines and theories, war studies, military history, national security, international relations, leadership, management, logistics and economics form the main features of the course curriculum. The subjects lead the members to better understanding of the employment of military power ingeneral and air power in particular. Instructional Methodology: As the course is designed to be member-centered, only a few formal lectures are delivered by the college facility. Student presentations, guest lectures, seminars, discussions, individual and group research assignments, exercises on land, naval and air warfare and war games form the main tools of training. Award of Degrees: The college is affiliated with the university of Karachi. After the completion of the Air War Course and subject to fulfilling all other conditions, the degree of M Sc in Strategic Studies is conferred on the members who hold B Sc (Hons) degree. The graduates of the Senior Command and Staff Course are awarded B Sc (Hons) in War Studies degree. Study Tours: Inland tours are undertaken during the Land Warfare phase and Industrial and Economic Studies phase. A foreign study tour of three weeks in also organized to enable the members to comprehend and appreciate the power potentials, geo-strategic concerns and defence capabilities of the countries visited. Apart from the specialist officers from the armed forces and other government and non government organizations, distinguished scholars from the universities, Pakistan Institute of Management, National Institute of Public Administration and other walks of life are invited to deliver lectures in their field of specialization. Exchange of views with the eminent scholars greatly helps in opening new vistas and broadening the mental horizon of the members. Educational Facilities: Library: The college has a well-organized modern library. New books are regularly added to the library. It has a collection of over 13000 books covering strategic doctrines and theories, war studies, land, sea and air power, nuclear warfare, military history, biographies, international relations, politics, management, etc. A large number of reference books are also available. The library subscribes to over 65 magazines, periodicals, and journals of local and foreign origin. All the major Pakistani newspapers are procured. A large number of clippings from newspapers and journals and video film section add much significance to the library. Extra-Curricular Activities: To help members, faculty and their families to get know one another, the college organizes a number of recreational activities. Annual fixtures against the Naval Staff College, Karachi, Command and Staff College, Quetta and National Defence College, Rawalpindi provide much-needed fun, frolic and diversion through intense contest and healthy competition. Approach: AWC is the most easily assessable Institute of PAF. It is located on main Shera-e-Faisal and within 10 minutes drive from Karachi International Air Port and at equal distance from city alteration. Selection Procedure for Foreign Students: Friendly countries desirous of training their students in Pakistan Air Force, Air War Collage should route their desires through Pakistan Services Attaches to the Joint Services Headquarters, Islamabad. For further details, Training Branch, Air Headquarters, Chaklala, Pakistan Air Force can be contacted.​

 

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Aero Medical Institute (AMI)

Aero Medical Institute (AMI), located at Maripur Karachi at 5 minutes distance from the beach, is an ideal location for conducting training activities. History: AMI was raised on 1st October, 1957 by amalgamation of Aircrew Indoctrination and Applied Research Centre (AI&ARC) located at PAF Base Maripur and Medical Training Centre (MTC) located at PAF Base Chaklala. Role: The main role of this object is to impart formal training to aircrew medical officers and medical trade related airmen in all aspects of aerospace medicine and flight safety. Courses Offered: AMI conducts a large number of courses related to medical sciences and safety management. Some of these course as :- Regular Courses Name of Course Duration Pre-Requisites Experience Topics Covered Primary Course in Aerospace Medicine 12 Weeks Medical Officers Aviation Physiology, Aerospace medicines, Physical, Psychological, Physiological and social stresses, Internal medicine, surgery, ENT Physiological Indoctrination Course 01 Week Aircrew Aviation Physiology, Altitude Chamber, Application G-Loc, Special Disorientation Training at AMI: Apart from research activities, which are regularly conducted at AMI, medical evaluation, psychiatric cover, drug detection and training in aerospace medicine are additional duties of the institute. Classroom activities are accompanied with lectures by eminent professional experts with a view to enlighten and motivate the trainee medicos for their future assignments. Students are also given research papers. Quality of flight surgeons at this institute is comparable to any one in the world. Faculty: Instructional staff at AMI comprises of highly experienced officers. They have extensive field experience in the area of aviation medicine and aviation related problems. Most of the faculty has their research papers published in various journals. Educational Facilities Language Lab:The students of AMI have ready access to the Base Library, besides periodicals, which are regularly subscribed. Computer Room: Students at AMI are provided with internet access and can use latest computers provided in computer room. Sports: All the students can use indoor and outdoor sports facilities, which include Tennis Courts, Squash Courts, Swimming Pool, Hockey, Football, Cricket fields etc. They can also participate in Inter Base Competitions with are regularly held. Medical Facilities: Proper medical cover is provided to the trainees at the Medical Inspection Room of the Base. However, when required trainees are referred to upgraded hospitals also. Accommodation and Messing: AMI accommodates its students in PAF Officers Mess Masroor in case of officers and PAF airmen Mess in case of airmen/SNCOs. These messes are one of the old and traditional messes and are known for their hospitality and excellent construction. Special menus are made for foreigners with their consultation and a conductive environment, ideal for training is provided. Transportation: AMI is 45 minutes drive from city centre and 70 minutes drive from airport. Plenty of public transport runs between the institution and city major attractions. Railway station is at a distance of only 20 minutes drive. Selection Procedure for Foreign Trainees: Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters Training Branch, Pakistan Air Force for queries about induction of their trainees.​

 

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School of Logistics (SOL)

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School of Logistics is located at Kohat. Kohat is situated in North West Frontier Province and is approximately at a distance of sixty four kilometers from Peshawar (capital city of NWFP) and at a distance of 178 kilometers from Islamabad (capital of Pakistan). Kohat city is surrounded by beautiful bushy steep hills and has its own climate. The climate is partly moderate but at times becomes extreme. December and January are always very cold. July and August remain as the hottest months of the year. There are reasonable number shopping centers in Kohat. Tanda Dam, with a first class rest house, is beautiful picnic spot at a distance of only 8 kilometers. Nearest cities, around Kohat, are Para Chanar, Hangu, Jand, Lachi and Peshawar. Role and Task: The School imparts training to supply and catering personnel of PAF and friendly countries. Brief History: The history of this school goes back to 1948 when first ever supply training in PAF was establish at Maripur, Karachi and was then moved to its present location. Its role underwent a change when in 1981, the supply officers training was entrusted to College of Logistics, establish at PAF Academy Risalpur. Since then, School has its total focus on airmen training. Courses Offered: SOL offers training courses in the following three categories: - Regular Courses:​ Type of course Name of Course Duration Weeks Frequency Basic Trg Course Basic Supply Course 46 Weeks 1 Per year Basic Trg Course Basic Catering Course 23 Weeks 2 Per year Basic Trg Course Automated Logistic Management Course 10 Weeks 4 Per year Basic Trg Course Customer Support 06 Weeks 7 Per year Basic Trg Course Pre-Release 11 Weeks 4 Per year Basic Trg Course Storemen 12 Weeks 3 Per year Eligibility: Matriculation or equivalent with good understanding of physics, mathematics and English is considered essential for the abovementioned courses. Special English Language classes can be arranged for the foreign trainees. Special Courses: Mid Level Logistics Management Engineering Officers 12 Weeks Supply and English Language Proficiency Airmen 61 Weeks Training at SOL: Logistics covers a broad spectrum of functions and processes. It involves the four segments of requirement determination, acquisition, conservation and distribution. These concepts are taught to the students through real life time scenarios and case studies and emphasis is given to the originality of thoughts and clear thinking. Faculty: The school is established with highly qualified and experience training staff to conduct courses in congenial and sophisticated environment. Educational Facilities Language LabTo ensure proper language learning, school is establish with a language laboratory which greatly help the trainees in developing their linguistic skills. Computer Room:SOL is established with computer rooms equipped with state of the art computers. Internet facility is provided to the desirous students. Sports: SOL boosts off a number of well-maintained grounds for football, volleyball and basketball to cater for the physical fitness and develop optimum sprit among trainees. Indoor games are also made available to the students. Besides regular PT, games and sports activities at the unit, officers, airmen and trainees of ATTS also actively participate in inter-unit and inter-base sports competitions. Medical Facilities: Proper medical cover is provided to the trainees at the Medical Inspection Room of the Base. However, when required trainees are referred to upgraded hospitals also. Accommodation and Messing: SOL has two double story and four single story building to house the trainees. The trainees themselves through various committees make menus. Officer supervises trainee's accommodation. Regular visits of medical officers ensure hygienic conditions in the vicinity. Foreign trainees are offered menus of their liking to cater for their tastes. Transportation: SOL is located about 01 hour drive from Peshawar, which houses an International Airport. Kohat city itself has major shopping centres and public transport is available easily. Selection Procedure: PAF Trainees: PAF trainees are selected on open merit by PAF Information and Selection Centers ( I & S Center) all over the country. Further details can be obtained from any PAF I & S Center. Foreign Trainees: Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters Training Branch, Pakistan for queries about induction of their trainees.​

 

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Transport Conversion School (TCS) School is located at Chaklala, Rawalpindi at a five minutes drive from Islamabad International Airport. Brief History: Transport Conversion School with its present structure and role was established in 1975. However, its history dates back to the independence of Pakistan in 1947, when a combined conversion school for fighter and transport aircrew was established at Maripur, Karachi. In May, 1956 transport flight was shifted to Lahore. On 01 July 1957 the flight was designated as No 3 Squadron and was equipped with Bristol freighters. In 1959, the Squadron was shifted to Chaklala. In 1967 it was number-plated. With the induction of C-130s, a need was felt for the reactivation of a specialized training institution therefore, No. 3 Squadron was revived as No 3 Transport Conversion Unit on 26 July, 1974. The role of the Squadron primarily became conversion and training of Pilots, Navigators, Flight Engineers and Loadmasters as well as the evaluation and standardization of all categories of PAF transport aircrew. In April 1975, the unit was renamed as Transport Conversion School. In 1989, a research and development cell was established. The cell was tasked to review the existing procedures of air transport operations and evolve new tactics for meeting the challenges of modern warfare. This helps in continually updating the syllabus of the courses. On 21 October, 1989, the TCS gave new dimension to its contribution towards training of transport aircrew by conducting short familiarization courses for the Pilots of Light Comm. Squadron. Role and Task: At present the school not only caters for requirements of Pakistan Air Force but also provides training facilities to the sister services as well as friendly foreign countries. Courses Offered: Transport Conversion School offers the following courses. Name of Course Duration Rank on Entry Service Qualification Required Experience Co-pilots Course Co-pilots Course Pilot Officer/2nd Lieutenant or equivalent or Flying Officer/Lieutenant or equivalent Maximum of 3 years after graduation B Sc/F Sc or equivalent with atleast average grade in flying: from flying Academy along with at least high average academic grade. Minimum 200 Flying hours Navigators Course 01 Year Cadet/Plt Off/Flg Off (or equivalent) Upto 3 Years B Sc/F Sc or equivalent with above average grade in academics Some flying experience preferred. Flight Engineers Course 01 Year Snr Tech/Sgt (or equivalent) Minimum 5 Years Trained Airframe/ Engine fitters Nil Loadmasters Course 11 Months Cpl Tech/Snr Tech from Supply Trade or Ground Signaller. Minimum of 5 Years service with minimum average grade in academics Nil Nil Training at TCS: Syllabus for all of the above mentioned training courses is divided into two phases i.e. ground training and flying training. Ground training consists of academics, physical training, musketry training and educational visits. This phase is generally conducted in the first 5 weeks of course. Academic portion includes: - Aircraft Technical Instruments, Radio and Radar Weight and Balance Meteorology Navigation and Aircraft Performance SOPs and AFMs ATC Airmanship Current Affairs Flying training includes training in basic aircraft handling and training in all the operational roles in which C-130 aircraft is likely to be utilized. Major flying phase includes: - Taxi/General Flying Circuits & Landings Instruments/Simulator Night Flying Route Flying Pratrooping Pre-FHT, FHT & CAT Categorization: At the end of all courses, the students appear for categorization test, which is conducted by the Transport Standardization and Evaluation Team and on successful completion students are awarded an operational category. Instruction Staff: Instructional staff at TCS is a selected lot who are chosen among the PAF Pilots. They are very experienced and are specially trained in the instructional techniques. Medical Facilities: Proper medical cover is provided to the students at the Medical Inspection Room of the Base. However, when required students are referred to upgrade hospitals also. Accommodation and Messing: TCS has its own boarding and lodging facilities. Rooms are well furnished, well lit and airy. Foreign students are provided separate accommodation and menus are prepared to suit their tastes and cultures. Transportation: Located in Rawalpindi, on the borders of capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, it is the most easily accessible institution of Pakistan. It is at 5 minutes drive from airport. The city of Rawalpindi is linked through plenty of rail/ road transportation with the other cities of the country. Selection Procedure for Foreign Trainees Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters Training Branch, Pakistan Air Force for queries about induction of their trainees.​

 

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A young Sarfaraz Rafiqui undergoing training back in 1953.

 

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T-37

 

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T-37


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Interesting color scheme i never seen before thanks for sharing.

 

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T-37

 

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Everyone wants to have a Photo with F-16.... PAF Cadets

 

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T-37

 

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Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT)


DACT Camps have been regularly scheduled in the PAF to provide tactically realistic learning environments for the training of pilots and air defence controllers. They are held twice a year at the level of regional air commands.

The methodology adapted has varied from time to time. The variations were governed by the performance of the aircraft taking part in the exercise, weapons simulated by them, and the different wartime scenarios for which this training was designed.

The overall objectives of this training, however, have always remained in harmony with the PAF's concept of operations. The objectives are to practice the 'pilot-controller team' concept; to familiarize pilots with employment potential of dissimilar aircraft; to enable controllers to handle in multiple bogey and closed control scenarios; to validate the evolved games plans. and to give practice to both pilots and controllers to operate under ECM environment.

The DACT Camps are always preceded by a comprehensive preparation involving both academic and flying phases. In the academic phase, in-house lectures and discussions are conducted to provide a baseline for a sound theoretic formulation of tactics, which can be later put to test in the air. In the flying phase, a gradual buildup is planned in order to provide the experience and confidence required for handling more demanding exercises.

The preparatory phase also promotes teamwork and mutual understanding among the participating units. Mainly two types of scenarios are practiced in the DACT Camps, i.e., conventional versus conventional aircraft and conventional versus modern hi-tech aircraft that are equipped with airborne intercept radar and beyond visual range missiles. Electronic Counter Measures (ECM) are also integrated in the DACT Camps to make the missions more demanding and realistic.

As the major role of the PAF in any future conflict would be air defence, therefore, the training given is focused on air defence, and the DACT Camps provide an excellent opportunity for role-orientated training of pilots and air defence controllers.

 

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Flying Instructor School (FIS)

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Flying Instructor School (FIS), an important part of PAF Academy is located at Risalpur and is responsible for training the flying instructors of not only the armed forces of Pakistan but also for friendly countries. It plays a very vital role in the flying training of pilots as all the future flying instructors are groomed in this institute. Location & History: Flying Instructors School was established on 15 April, 1952 at the then PAF College Risalpur to ensure steady input of qualified instructor pilots. The school was moved to Chaklala in May, 1954. Subsequently, it was shifted back to PAF Risalpur in April, 1962, where the operations were carried out from a large hanger. However, after the construction of new building in 1982, the FIS was moved to its present location. Courses Offered:​ Flying Instructors Course: This course is spread over a period of 22 weeks and two courses are conducted per year. Major academics and flying subjects include Principles of Flight, Metrology, Aero-Engines, Navigation, Instruments, Flying and Airmanship, Instructional Techniques, Tutorials, Long Phase Briefs, Flying Phase Briefs etc. Pilots deployed on instructional duties are eligible for this course. Training at FIS: FIS is not just a school for training pilots but it also looks into the essential requirements of training a successful instructor. FIS follows a three-dimensional training system including academic training, flying training and Instructional technique. In academic training, students are taught different aviation related subjects to increase their knowledge and conceptual know how of the mechanics of all aspects of aviation. The flying syllabus is designed to develop in the student instructor the ability to execute a particular maneuver in the aircraft and at the same time to describe precisely how the maneuver is being executed. The major emphasis is on the instructional technique. The FIS staff during the course continuously guides and counsels the students to instill the qualities required to be an efficient instructor. These qualities include mental maturity, motivation, example, sense of duty and behavior under stress. Faculty/Instructional Pilots: Instructional staff at FIS are chosen among the PAF Pilots. They are very experienced and are specially trained in the instructional techniques so that the future instructors whom they train are themselves of highest professional competence. Medical Facilities: Proper medical cover is provided to the trainees at the Medical Inspection Room of the Academy. However, when required trainees are referred to upgraded hospitals also. Transportation: Risalpur is within easy approach. It is one-hour drive from Peshawar international airport and two hours drive for Islamabad international airport. Facility of road/rail transportation is also available. It is approximately 15 KMs southwest of the historical city of Mardan in NWFP. One hour drive from Peshawar, provincial metropolis and two hours drive from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. Selection Procedure: PAF Trainees: PAF trainees are selected by Air Headquarters Personnel Branch. Foreign Trainees:Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters Training Branch, Pakistan Air Force for queries about induction of their trainees.​

 

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School Of Aeronautics (SOA)

SOA is located at Korangi Creek, Karachi. It imparts invaluable professional knowledge to the airmen of aeronautical trades. The school has trained very large number of personnel from PAF, Pak Army, Pak Navy and allied countries. History: The history of SOA dates back to independence of Pakistan, in 1947, when an Apprentices’ School was started in 1950 with the staff drawn from Air Services Training, Humble, UK. Later, the School was re-named as School of Aeronautics and was formally inaugurated in 1951 by Mr Liaquat Ali Khan, the first Prime Minister of Pakistan. The school has trained over 80,000 PAF, Pak Army and Pak Navy personnel and more than 2000 trainees from the allied countries. Courses Offered: SOA offers training courses in the following three categories :- Basic Trade Training Courses: These courses are offered in six aeronautical and three allied trades, preparing the future technicians to handle sophisticated aircraft. On completion of training, the trainees are awarded with Diploma of Associate Engineering in their respective trades. Specialty Short Courses: These courses are offered to experienced technicians and officers who are awarded certificates on successful completion of the courses. Career Progression Courses: These courses are designed for grooming Junior Commissioned Officers and Senior Non-commissioned Officers as future aircraft maintenance supervisors. Certificates are awarded on completion of the courses. Salient features of these course are as follows :- Type of Course Name of Course Duration Weeks Frequency Basic Trg Course " " " " " Allied Trade " " Special Short Course " Career Course Airframe Engine Electrical Instrument Armament Photo Life Saving Equipment Machinist Metal Worker Quality Control / Quality Assurance Course for all trades Aerial Photographic JCO Course (All Trade) 92-94 (4 Semesters) 92-94 92-94 92-94 92-94 92-94 40-42 (2 Semesters) 40-42 40-42 8-11 6 8 Two per year Two per year Two per year Two per year Two per year Two per year As required As required As required As required As required As required Eligibility: Matriculation or equivalent with good understanding of physics, mathematics and English is considered essential for the abovementioned courses. Special English Language classes can be arranged for the foreign trainees. Training at SOA: Training at SOA is a blend of academic subjects, specialty trade subjects and general services training. Academics, which constitutes 16% of total training include technical English, Physics, Tech drawing, Material Science etc. Trade subjects constituting 73% of total training include specialist trade theory detailed knowledge on Mirage V & F-7 P A/C, system diagnosis, Practical Hands on Training on phased out aircraft, subject like Flight Safety and Ground Safety, QC/QA and Maint Management. General Service Training continues throughout the training and helps in inculcating military traits like discipline, character building and devotion to duty. Public speaking is encouraged through After Dinner Literary Activities (ADLA). Examination System: Examination system at SOA is designed to evaluate the conceptual understanding of the trainees. They are examined through surprise quizzes, mid semester and end semester examinations. To ensure highest standards, second and final semester examinations are conducted by an independent PAF organization known as Central Trade Test Board (CTTB). Instruction Methodology: Method of instruction is based on classroom lectures, which are delivered with the help of training aids like flip charts, OHPs, Computers etc. Use of mock-ups, actual components and laboratories help in enhancing practical experience. Hands on Training on phased out aircraft and visits to operational and Engineering Bases / depots are organized. Faculty: Instructional staff at SOA is a blend of qualified officers and JCOs / SNCOs having sufficient field experience in their own specialized fields. Minimum qualification for officers is BE /MSc where as maximum of them hold MS degrees from foreign / local universities. Educational Facilities: Library:SOA possesses a well established library, which is equipped with sufficient number of latest books / periodicals on related subjects. Computer Lab: SOA has a well equipped lab to ensure that trainees keep pace with the latest trends. Internet facility is also available. Sports:Physical fitness is given paramount importance in the life of a trainee. Sports periods are held on five days a week, collective PT once a week, whereas, different sports are played on other days. Inter- Squadron and Inter-School championships are organized in every semester to encourage healthy sportsman spirit among the trainees. Due to the proximity of SOA to the creek waters the trainees have an opportunity to enjoy sea sports like yachting, wind surfing, canoeing, para gliding etc. Medical Facilities: Proper medical cover is provided to the trainees at the Medical Inspection Room of the Base. However, when required trainees are referred to upgraded hospitals. Hobbies Club: To ensure healthy mental activities, all trainees are encouraged to join clubs, which include aero modeling and electronics etc. Accommodation and Messing: Comfortable and hygienic living conditions and messing facility is provided to trainees. Barracks are spacious, airy and well lit. Trainees have their meals in two properly furnished and efficiently managed messes. Meals include breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner. A weekly menu, with different meals for each day is followed ensuring a balanced diet. Foreign trainees are provided separate accommodation and menus are prepared to suit their tastes and cultures. Transportation SOA is located at about forty minutes drive from Quaid-e-Azam International airport of Karachi. The busy railroad station of Karachi Cantt is accessible through ample public transport and is within fifteen minutes reach. The city centre with abundance of shopping malls is also at fifteen minutes drive; approachable not only through public transport but the special transport, which is arranged for the trainees on weekends. Selection Procedure for Foreign Trainees: Friendly countries can contact Air Headquarters Training Branch, Pakistan for queries about induction of their trainees at SOA.​