RAWALPINDI: On fifth anniversary of 'Operation Swift Retort', Pakistan's Armed Forces have vowed to respond to any aggression against people of Pakistan, country's sovereignty and territorial integrity with "Full might and without any hesitation".

On February 27, 2019, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) had shot down two Indian planes that had violated Pakistani airspace. One of Indian pilots was captured by Pakistan, but was later handed over as gesture of peace.

A press release issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said, "February 27, 2019, marked significant event in our history, demonstrating resolve of people of Pakistan and professionalism of armed forces in response to unwarranted aggression from India, motivated by political considerations and electoral concerns.

"Despite desperate Indian attempts to favourably shape information space, events of that fateful day showcased absolute operational ascendance of Pakistan's armed forces over Indian side," ISPR said.

"Steadfastness and competence of Pakistan's armed forces were acknowledged by military experts and analysts throughout world, effectively debunking frivolous Indian claims which could not stand to factual scrutiny," it said.

"Strategic foresight to return downed pilot in interest of peace, from position of strength and after having dominated opposing force decisively, is unanimously hailed, to this day, by international community as remarkable gesture of political maturity and superior statecraft."

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 28 2024

Like Business on Facebook, follow @DailyNCourier on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.