Admiral Ashraf hails legacy of Operation Somnath

Pakistan Navy observed Navy Day on Tuesday with tributes to its martyrs and veterans. Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf recalled the historic Operation Somnath. He said its legacy of courage and determination continues to inspire the Navy.

In his message, Admiral Ashraf said Operation Somnath showed how a determined maritime force could achieve important results despite having fewer resources and personnel.

He said the same spirit was witnessed during Marka-e-Haq in 2025. He said the Pakistan Navy maintained operational readiness and deterred the larger Indian Navy from threatening Pakistan’s maritime interests.

The Navy Day commemorations began with Quranic recitation and special prayers. Prayers were offered for personnel who lost their lives while serving the country.

Admiral Ashraf later visited the Shuhada Monument at Naval Headquarters in Islamabad. He laid a floral wreath there in honour of the fallen personnel.

The naval chief also met the families of Navy personnel who died in the line of duty. He acknowledged their sacrifices and praised their courage and resilience.

Operation Somnath remains a significant episode in Pakistan Navy’s history. The operation was conducted on the night of September 7-8, 1965, during the Pakistan-India war. Pakistan Navy ships targeted the Indian naval facility at Dwarka.

President Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to Pakistan Navy personnel on Navy Day. He praised naval officers, sailors and civilian employees for their dedication and professional excellence.

Zardari said Operation Somnath demonstrated the courage and determination of Pakistan’s naval personnel. He said the operation helped establish a tradition of bravery and professionalism within the force.

The president also highlighted the Navy’s role during Marka-e-Haq in May 2025. He said the force remained prepared and maintained forward deployments to protect Pakistan’s maritime security.

He also referred to Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr. The operation was launched amid tensions in the Middle East. Under the operation, the Navy worked to protect Pakistan’s energy security and economic lifelines.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the Navy’s martyrs, veterans and serving personnel. He congratulated officers, sailors, civilian employees and their families on Navy Day.

The prime minister said September 8 was a reminder of the courage and determination shown by Pakistan Navy personnel during the 1965 war.

He recalled Operation Somnath and said Pakistani warships had targeted the Indian naval station at Dwarka. He described the operation as an important chapter in Pakistan’s naval history.

Shehbaz also mentioned the role of Pakistan’s submarine Ghazi during the 1965 conflict. He said its presence affected Indian naval movements in the region.

The prime minister said Pakistan Navy demonstrated similar preparedness during Marka-e-Haq in 2025. He said its readiness helped deter maritime aggression.

Shehbaz said the Navy now has broader responsibilities. These include protecting Pakistan’s sea lanes, trade routes and maritime economic interests.

He also highlighted the Navy’s role amid recent regional tensions. He said the force ensured the movement of Pakistani-flagged merchant vessels and petroleum carriers.