The leadership of the Pakistan Armed Forces has marked the seventh anniversary of Operation Swift Retaliation, launched on February 27, 2019, saying the country’s sovereignty will be defended at all costs.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations, the operation was carried out in response to what it described as unprovoked Indian aggression and reflected Pakistan’s defensive resolve and preparedness.

Chief of Army Staff Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Naveed Ashraf and Chief of the Air Staff Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu paid tribute to officers and personnel, praising their professionalism and courage.

The statement said the armed forces demonstrated operational readiness during the 2019 operation and prevented further escalation, restoring what it described as a strategic balance in the region.

It reiterated that Pakistan’s armed forces remain prepared to respond to all threats and will continue to prioritise national security while contributing to regional and global peace and stability.

Operation Swift Retaliation followed the 2019 escalation between Pakistan and India, during which aerial engagements took place, and an Indian pilot was detained before being released by Pakistan.