Guardians Of Arabian Sea: Pakistan Navy Decisive Operations Thwarted Enemy Designs In 1965 War
The 1965 war remains a pivotal chapter in Pakistan's military history, showcasing the indomitable courage and determination of its armed forces. While major battles raged on land and in the air, the Pakistan Navy played a crucial role in safeguarding the country's maritime interests in the Arabian Sea.
Traditionally known as the "silent service," the Pakistan Navy demonstrated its operational prowess despite limited naval warfare opportunities during the conflict. They emerged victorious in every encounter against the enemy navy. Facing a numerically superior Indian Navy, Pakistani sailors maintained high readiness, protected vital sea lanes, and ensured the continuity of maritime trade during wartime.
The Naval Strategy
According to 1965 war veteran and retired Major General Tajul Haq, the Navy's initial strategy was defensive, focusing on preserving Pakistan’s maritime security and protecting its sea lanes:
- Maintaining Harbours: Ensuring normalcy in ports.
- Safeguarding Merchant Shipping: Protecting commercial vessels from attacks.
- Guarding Sea Lanes: Defending crucial marine routes.
- Preventing Disruption: Stopping any attempt to disrupt Pakistan's maritime commerce.
General Haq explains that as the war progressed, the Navy adopted a more proactive stance against Indian Air Force sorties. They successfully conducted missions for intelligence gathering and countering potential enemy threats. The long-range submarine, PNS Ghazi, was deployed to monitor Indian naval movements, especially around the Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, emphasizing the strategic value of submarines in naval warfare.