Islamabad, 15 June 2025 (Khyber Mail): On this day in 1958, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) took a major step in enhancing its air combat capabilities with the establishment of the Flight Leaders’ School (FLS) at PAF Base Masroor, Karachi. This initiative, spearheaded by Air Marshal Asghar Khan, the first Pakistani to serve as Commander-in-Chief of PAF, was designed to provide advanced tactical training and leadership development for fighter pilots.
The Flight Leaders’ School (FLS) focused on refining the skills of Flight & Squadron Commanders, emphasizing combat readiness, mission planning, and aerial tactics. The school played a crucial role in shaping the operational strategies of PAF pilots, ensuring they were equipped with the necessary expertise to handle complex aerial missions.
Following the 1965 India-Pakistan War, the FLS faced periodic closures due to operational constraints but remained a cornerstone of PAF’s training philosophy. Recognizing the need for a more advanced institution, PAF established the Combat Commanders’ School (CCS) on 5 May 1976 at PAF Base Mushaf, Sargodha. The CCS was officially inaugurated on 15 August 1977 by Air Chief Marshal Zulfiqar Ali Khan.
The Combat Commanders’ School (CCS) evolved into a premier training facility, focusing on mid-career advanced air combat training for fighter squadron commanders, air defense controllers, and instructors. Over the years, CCS expanded its capabilities, incorporating Mirage III, F-6, F-16, F-7P, and JF-17 fighter squadrons into its training programs. In 2016, CCS became part of the PAF Airpower Centre of Excellence (PAF ACE) under the Central Air Command (CAC).
The legacy of FLS and CCS remains a cornerstone of PAF’s commitment to combat proficiency and strategic leadership, shaping generations of elite fighter pilots and reinforcing Pakistan’s aerial defense. Today, CCS continues to play a vital role in research and development of advanced air combat tactics, ensuring PAF remains at the forefront of aerial warfare.