Today, Pakistan commemorates the sixth anniversary of Operation Swift Retort, a defining moment in the country’s military history when the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) delivered a decisive response to Indian aggression on February 27, 2019.
The operation, which followed escalating tensions after the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019, reaffirmed Pakistan’s sovereignty and exposed India’s false claims to the world. The Modi-led government had accused Pakistan of orchestrating the attack without providing any credible evidence, leading to an Indian incursion into Pakistani airspace.
In retaliation, the PAF launched Operation Swift Retort, shooting down two Indian fighter jets that violated Pakistani airspace. Indian Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was captured but later released as a gesture of peace, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability.
To commemorate the operation, the PAF Museum in Karachi has preserved key artifacts, including Abhinandan’s uniform, the remains of the downed Indian jet, and the iconic teacup from which he was served tea during captivity.
Despite India’s subsequent attempts to distort the facts—falsely claiming 300 casualties and propagating fabricated audio clips—global media, including The Washington Post, debunked these assertions. The publication confirmed that no Pakistani F-16 jets were lost, effectively dismantling India’s narrative.
On the anniversary, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the bravery, professionalism, and sacrifices of Pakistan’s Armed Forces.
“On February 27, 2019, the Pakistan Air Force sent a clear message to the enemy: Pakistan has the full capacity to defend its borders. India’s aggression was met with a fitting response. The nation will never forget the sacrifices of its forces for national security,” he stated.
Operation Swift Retort remains a symbol of Pakistan’s military strength, professional excellence, and unwavering national unity, reinforcing the country’s determination to defend its sovereignty against any threat.
