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Pakistan’s Defence Day offers an opportunity to remember the armed forces personnel who defended the country during times of conflict. While much of the focus remains on battles fought on land and in the air, the Pakistan Navy also played a significant role in protecting the country’s maritime frontiers.
The Arabian Sea has long been vital to Pakistan’s security and economy. Its waters carry major trade routes and connect the country with international markets. Therefore, protecting the coastline and maritime approaches remains a key national responsibility.
During the 1965 war, Pakistan’s naval force faced a larger Indian fleet. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Pakistani sailors maintained their defensive positions and sought to prevent Indian forces from gaining an advantage at sea.
The Navy’s role became particularly prominent during the final stages of the conflict.
On the night of September 7, 1965, Pakistani warships moved towards the Indian coastal town of Dwarka. In the early hours of September 8, the vessels carried out Operation Somnath, targeting shore installations at Dwarka.
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The operation demonstrated that Pakistan’s smaller naval force could conduct an offensive maritime operation when required. It subsequently became an important part of Pakistan Navy’s institutional history and is remembered in accounts of the 1965 conflict.
Meanwhile, the Navy also worked to protect Pakistan’s coastline and maritime approaches. Its operations complemented the efforts of the Pakistan Army on land and the Pakistan Air Force in the skies.
Submarine operations also formed an important part of Pakistan’s maritime strategy.
PNS Ghazi conducted patrols during the 1965 conflict. Its presence imposed pressure on the opposing fleet and contributed to Pakistan’s maritime deterrence.
Six years later, the submarine was deployed again during the 1971 war. PNS Ghazi was lost near Visakhapatnam while operating in Indian waters, and its crew members were killed.
Despite the loss, the Pakistan Navy continued its operations during the conflict.
Another submarine, PNS Hangor, later achieved a significant wartime success. On December 9, 1971, Hangor attacked and sank the Indian frigate INS Khukri off the Kathiawar coast.
The engagement remains a notable episode in Pakistan’s naval history and is commemorated by the Navy.
Pakistan Navy’s responsibilities extend beyond conventional warfare.
In peacetime, the force contributes to maritime security along Pakistan’s coastline and territorial waters. Its missions include counter-narcotics operations and efforts against human trafficking through maritime routes.
These operations often receive less public attention than major military engagements. Nevertheless, they remain important for protecting Pakistan’s coastal interests and preventing illegal activities at sea.
Furthermore, maritime surveillance helps authorities monitor vessels and potential security threats along the country’s coastline.
Pakistan’s maritime security environment has evolved considerably since the wars of 1965 and 1971.
Modern naval forces rely on advanced submarines, surveillance systems, aircraft, unmanned platforms and other technologies. Consequently, maritime defence now requires a combination of traditional naval capabilities and modern intelligence and surveillance systems.
The Pakistan Navy has continued to develop its capabilities as regional maritime competition has increased.
At the same time, the Navy’s role in national security extends beyond combat operations. Its personnel remain involved in maritime patrols, coastal protection and missions aimed at securing important sea routes.
Defence Day is observed on September 6 to commemorate Pakistan’s defence during the 1965 war.
The occasion also provides an opportunity to remember naval personnel who served and sacrificed their lives during Pakistan’s conflicts.
From the operations of 1965 to the sacrifices of 1971 and the Navy’s continuing maritime security duties, the service has remained an important component of Pakistan’s national defence.
The stories of PNS Ghazi, PNS Hangor and Operation Somnath continue to form part of the Navy’s historical legacy.
Ultimately, Pakistan’s maritime security depends on maintaining vigilance across its coastline and surrounding waters. As the country marks another Defence Day, the Pakistan Navy’s history serves as a reminder of the strategic importance of the sea to Pakistan’s sovereignty, trade and national security.
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