Pakistan's Z-10ME, PAF History, and a Historian's Look at the May 2025 War

We are joined by special guests Usman Shabbir and Yawar Mazhar, co-authors of the groundbreaking historical book "Eagles of Destiny," for an unprecedented look into the Pakistan Air Force. They reveal the untold story of how the PAF was forged as an institution, deliberately creating a unique identity and culture separate from its British origins and the Pakistan Army. Discover the transformative impact of the US Mutual Defense Assistance Program, which provided not just new aircraft but a whole new way of thinking, training, and operating that defines the PAF to this day. In this episode, we also break down one of the biggest defense news stories of the week: the Pakistan Army's induction of the advanced Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopter. Our panel analyzes its sophisticated electronic warfare suite, its wide array of new weapons, and how it represents a major leap in capability for Army Aviation in a contested battlefield. We also get our guests' unique historical perspective on the May 2025 air conflict and the lessons learned. About the Book:Usman and Yawar's book, "Eagles of Destiny," offers a comprehensive history of the PAF's formative years. It is available as a consolidated single volume in Pakistan from Readings and as two separate volumes internationally from Helion & Company. Contact Us:For questions, comments, or suggestions, please email us at [email protected]