Naval warriors sink India's naval base Dwarka in Op Somnath

On 7 and 8 September 1965, the Pakistan Navy launched a successful attack on the Indian naval base at Dwarka, 120 miles from its own waters. The operation, known as Somnath, involved seven Pakistani warships: PNS Babar, Khyber, Badr, Jahangir, Alamgir, Shahjahan and Tipu Sultan.

The attack was quick and effective. Within just four minutes, the base was ablaze. The intense shelling also resulted in the destruction of the Indian Air Force radar at the base.

The Pakistan Navy's daring operation severely crippled the Indian Navy. The Indian warships Mysore and Talwar, anchored just a few miles away, did not respond to distress calls and remained anchored in ports for the rest of the conflict, reflecting their fear and inability to intervene.

The successful operation was hailed as a major strategic victory and demonstrated the Pakistan Navy's capability and determination in the face of adversity.

Today is Pakistan Navy Day

Today is Pakistan Navy Day [Sunday] to honour the heroic achievements of the veterans and martyrs of the Pakistan Navy who fought bravely against a much greater enemy.

Navy Day is a glorious commemoration of the daring Operation SOMNATH, in which Pakistan Navy warships destroyed key coastal installations and caused irreparable damage to the Indian side.

In his message, Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf said Navy Day was a remarkable day in our naval history when our fearless warriors, driven by unwavering determination, attacked the enemy with absolute impunity and bravery.

He said this day is a lasting tribute to the selfless sacrifices of our brave officers and sailors whose exemplary bravery continues to inspire generations and inflame the spirit of patriotism throughout the nation.

Navy Day is an opportunity to commemorate a number of extraordinary operations that epitomize the unflagging enthusiasm and unparalleled courage of our sea watchers. Operation 'SOMNATH' is a prime example of bravery, in which a formidable Pakistan Navy flotilla comprising seven large warships carried out a daring surprise attack on the Indian port of Dwarka. This audacious operation inflicted significant damage to critical coastal installations and a key radar station, displaying unparalleled professionalism and dealing a severe blow to the enemy.

During the 1965 war, PNS/M GHAZI proved to be a gruesome deterrent, embodying our operational superiority and raising the stakes for the enemy by pursuing malicious intent and inflicting damage on our homeland through violent force.