From the Shores of Dwarka to the Waves of Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos: Passing the Baton of Courage and Sacrifice Across Generations

HasbunaAllahuwaNi‘malWakeel. These words are an everlasting declaration of faith echoing in the hearts of Pakistan’s defenders, shaping their courage, sacrifice, and loyalty to the motherland. Time and again, they have proved with courage and valor that this nation could never be subdued as long as they stand firm between the enemy and their homeland.When we talk about pride, sacrifice, and unity, 6th September is a day that can never remain just a chapter in history. On this day in 1965, India attempted challenge Pakistan’s sovereignty by launching a full-scale attack across our borders. The enemy believed that by sheer numbers and heavy weaponry, it could vanquish/ SubjugatePakistan. Yet what unfolded became a story of faith overpowering fear and resilience triumphing over might. Pakistan Army stood like a wall, repelling the aggression with unmatched bravery. Our Air Force ruled the skies, writing tales of glory that became immortal in military history. But to understand the complete picture of this day, one must not forget the unsungguardians of the sea, Pakistan Navy, whose contribution was as decisive as it was daring.

The 1965 Indo-Pak War posed numerous challenges for Pakistan on multiple fronts. Despite being outnumbered, Pakistan Armed Forces demonstrated remarkable skill and determination. Among them, Pakistan Navy carried out daring and decisive operations even while countering a numerically superior Indian Navy.

When the war broke out, Pakistan’s Naval Fleetwas much smaller compared to Indian Navy. The imbalance was stark on paper, the enemy enjoyed numerical superiority. Yet, when duty called, Pakistan Navy proved that victory does not depend on numbers alone, but on courage, skill, and faith. Pakistan Navy stood vigilant, ensuring no enemy could harm the waterof the homeland.

The highlight of Navy’s contribution came with Operation Dwarka, carried out on the night of 7th and 8th September 1965. In a daring tactic, Pakistan’s Naval Fleet moved deep intothe enemy’s waters and struck at the Indian coastal town of Dwarka, home to a strategic radar station that guided Indian Air Force operations. The operation achieved multiple objectives: it neutralized the radar station, forced the Indian Navy into defensive mode, and sent a loud message that Pakistan could strike where the enemy felt most secure.

Adding to India’s worries, was the presence of PNS GHAZI, Pakistan’s formidable submarine. Its deployment in the waters created a constant threat that forced much of the Indian Navy to remain confined to its harbors. This strategic positioning ensured that Pakistan maintained control at sea with minimal resources while keeping India Navy at bay. Indian Navy’s inability to challenge Pakistan effectively was a proof of how well the operation was planned and executed. Not a single substantial loss was recorded on Pakistan’s side, a clear sign of tactical brilliance. History bears witness to how Pakistan Navy seized the initiative, held its ground throughout the war, and never allowed the enemy to fulfill its ambitions.

Even today, that same determination echoed in Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, where Pakistan Navy once again demonstrated its unmatched competence and strategic superiority, ensuring that no enemy dared to penetrate Pakistan’s waters. Over the years, India has poured resources into expanding its naval power by extending their fleet large warships, submarines with advanced capabilities, long-range maritime surveillance aircraft, and armed drones to extend their reach and challenge Pakistan’s southern region, and exert their dominance in Indian Ocean. Despite these high ambitions of the enemy, when tensions escalated in 2025, Indian Navy’s aggressive plans were neutralized before they could even take shape and the myth of Indian Naval supremacy turned into dust by Pakistan Navy. The pride of the Indian Navalaircraft carrier/ flagship, INS Vikrant, along with other major surface combatants, remained far from Pakistani water. Their forward deployment proved to be little more than an illusion. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s submarines moved stealthily beneath the waves, ready to engage vital targets at a moment’s notice. Fast-attack missile boats remained on high alert, surface ships kept a watchful eye across the Arabian Sea, and maritime patrol aircraft continuously monitored the horizon for any signs of enemy activity.Pakistan Navy ensured that sea lines of communication, which carry Pakistan’s vital trade and energy supplies, remainfully secure. Even in sensitive areas such as Sir Creek, Pakistan Navy stood ready, ensuring no enemy could establish a foothold or disrupt port operations.

The glimpse of Pakistan Navy’s potential we witnessed during Marka-e-Haq is a contemporary reflection of the same determination and strategic skill it displayed in the 1965 war, proving that the guardians of the sea will always raise to defend the nation’s sovereignty and dignity whenever called upon.