On the seventh anniversary of Operation Swift Retort, the leadership of Pakistan’s Armed Forces has paid a heartfelt tribute to the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices made by its personnel in safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CDF); Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff, issued a collective statement underscoring the significant role played by Pakistan’s military forces in responding to national and regional challenges.
Launched on 27 February 2019, Operation Swift Retort marked a decisive and calibrated response by Pakistan to India’s unprovoked aggression. The operation was a testament to the operational excellence, professionalism, and readiness of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. It demonstrated the nation’s unwavering commitment to preserving its territorial integrity and ensuring the security of its people, at a time when regional tensions threatened to destabilize peace.
In his message, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir emphasized the strategic importance of the operation in restoring the regional balance of power and deterring any further escalation of hostilities. He acknowledged the steadfastness and bravery of Pakistan’s soldiers, sailors, and airmen, who stood resolute in the face of adversity, ensuring the safety of the nation while demonstrating the military’s operational capability on the world stage.
The leadership of Pakistan’s military also paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Armed Forces’ personnel, highlighting their professionalism and readiness to defend the country at all costs. The sacrifices made by soldiers in safeguarding the national interest, whether in combat or peacekeeping missions, were hailed as vital contributions to the preservation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and its security interests. The leadership further reassured the nation that the Armed Forces remain vigilant, alert, and fully prepared to respond to any threat that may arise.
Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to regional peace and stability. They stressed that while the Armed Forces stand ever ready to protect Pakistan’s borders and respond to any aggression, the country continues to prioritize dialogue and diplomacy as tools for peace-building. Pakistan’s military leadership emphasized that the Armed Forces, while prepared for any eventuality, are equally committed to contributing to global stability and peacekeeping operations.
In line with this commitment, the leadership of the Armed Forces expressed confidence that Operation Swift Retort was not only a demonstration of Pakistan’s defense capabilities but also a reminder to the world of the importance of peace, restraint, and mutual respect among nations.
The Field Marshal and the Service Chiefs reaffirmed the operational readiness of the Pakistani military, asserting that the Armed Forces stand as a formidable force for national defense and global peace. They assured the people of Pakistan that the military remains vigilant, prepared to face any challenge, while continuing its mission of maintaining peace and security in the region and beyond.
In closing, the military leadership extended their heartfelt appreciation to the Armed Forces’ personnel and their families for their continuous sacrifices and commitment to the nation. They also expressed their gratitude to the people of Pakistan for their unwavering support and trust in the Armed Forces, reaffirming that the defense of Pakistan remains a collective effort, shared by all citizens of the nation.
Operation Swift Retort was a military operation carried out by Pakistan’s Armed Forces in response to India’s violation of Pakistan’s airspace on 26 February 2019. The operation was a well-coordinated response that demonstrated Pakistan’s military capabilities and resolve to defend its sovereignty. It is regarded as one of the most significant military actions in the region in recent years, highlighting Pakistan’s preparedness and strategic approach to national defense.
