Pakistan Navy is celebrating September 8 as Navy Day to acknowledge the sacrifices and spirit of its heroes, who epitomized grit, courage, and valour during the 1965 War.
The day reminds us of the heroic deeds and daring achievements of our Ghazis and Shuhadas who fought gallantly and humbled a much bigger adversary, with their absolute faith in the Almighty and profound self-belief.
This day marks a golden chapter in our rich naval history and rekindles hope and pride in our new generation.
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Remembering the events of 7 September 1965: Operation SOMNATH
On the night of 7/8 September 1965, a Flotilla comprising of seven ships of Pakistan Navy, in a daring operation code-named ‘SOMNATH’, bombarded Indian port of Dwarka.
The swift and accurate action not only destroyed important shore installations which included an Indian radar station and a radio beacon directing Indian Air Force Bombers for attacks on Karachi, but also inflicted irreparable damage to Indian pride.
Submarine Ghazi reigned supreme and remained unchallenged at sea throughout the war. Her ominous presence in the vicinity of Indian port kept the Indian Navy Ships including their Aircraft Carrier, besieged in the harbor and rendered it ineffective to play any role or influence the course of the war.
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Pakistan Navy is recognized as a potent naval force in the region
Pakistan Navy is a key partner of international navies in collaborative maritime security initiatives and has also launched its own initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSP) to provide secure maritime environment for the good of global commons.
With the realization of CPEC Project, PN has growing responsibilities, and a role in the success of this project of vital national importance. The security in and around the port of Gwadar, which is the lynchpin of CPEC, is under special focus. The Navy is fully capable and vigilantly guarding the country’s maritime interests.
PN is also spearheading various initiatives to jump start Pakistan’s Blue Economy in line with the government’s renewed focus on the maritime sector and its decision to declare 2020 as the ‘Year of Blue Economy’.
In a significant development, PN in collaboration with China Geological Survey (CGS), the leading Chinese organization in offshore marine scientific research, is facilitating complete and systematic geological investigation within Pakistan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for mapping and exploration of offshore hydrocarbon resources.
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Exploration surveys by CGS Ships
Two exploration surveys by CGS Ships have been conducted so far and preliminary findings are promising, indicating presence of various geological features associated with hydrocarbon reservoirs.
The third joint expedition with CGS is planned during 2021. PN, besides its core task of maritime defense of the country, is committed to the development of the maritime sector and bringing the dividends of Blue Economy to the nation.
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As we commemorate the spirit of Navy Day, all ranks of Pakistan Navy reiterate solidarity with their Kashmiri brethren and denounce the blatant annexation of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.
Pakistan will continue to support Kashmiris’ just struggle till the resolution of the Kashmir issue, in accordance with the aspirations of Kashmiri people and relevant UNSC Resolutions, the naval force says.