Pakistan observes the sixth anniversary of “Operation Swift Retort”, a significant military victory by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) against India.
On February 27, 2019, the PAF successfully shot an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets over Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) after a series of provocative actions from India.
The events that led to the operation began one day earlier when India violated the control line (LOC) under its “Balakot strikes” by sending military aircraft to the Pakistani airspace.
After India fell a payload in an open area, the PAF responded by sending jets over LOC, issuing warning shots and locking on Indian military positions.
As India tried to retaliate by sending more jets, the PAF successfully lowered two Indian aircraft in an aviation.
One of the Indian pilots, wing commander Abhinandan Vardhaman, was arrested and later released as a goodwill gesture.
Source: Reuters
In recognition of their bravery, the PAF pilots who brought down the Indian jets were awarded military honors, including Sitara-e-Jur’at (Star of Valor) for WG CMDR Noman Ali Khan and Tamgha-E-Jur’at (Medal of Valor) for Group Captain Faheem Ahmad Khan and Sq Ldr Hassan Mahmood Siddiqui.
The operation marked a strong message about Pakistan’s obligation to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
It also demonstrated the operational expertise and preparedness of Pakistan’s armed forces, confirming their ability to deter aggression and maintaining control over the region.
On this anniversary, Pakistan’s top military leadership, including President Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the armed forces and professionalism of the armed forces. They repeated the country’s dedication to secure security and contribute to regional peace.
The military leadership emphasized their continuous emergency preparedness to tackle any threats to national security and ensure that the confidence and trust placed in those of the Pakistan population are maintained. The forces remain vigilant in their persecution of peace, stability and harmony both in the country and beyond its borders.
On the other hand, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing in Pakistan’s military, has released a patriotic anthem entitled Dushmanna Sunn to commemorate six years ago Operation Swift Retort, an important moment in Pakistan’s defense history.
Anthem’s lyrics were written by Ahmed Azeem, while Kamran Allah Khan composed and performed the song.
ISPR described the release as a “roar against any opponent” and a reminder that Pakistan would respond resolutely to any aggression.
Operation Swift Retort remains a defining moment in Pakistan’s military history, often cited as an example of the country’s emergency against external threats.
The anniversary acts as a confirmation of its defense policy and strategic deterrence.
