Operation Swift Retort: Six years since Pakistan’s historic aerial defence

Today marks six years since Operation Swift Retort, when the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) delivered a historic blow to Indian aggression on February 27, 2019.

The operation not only defended Pakistan’s sovereignty but also exposed India’s false claims on the global stage.

Following the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019, the Modi government staged a false flag operation, blaming Pakistan without evidence.

On February 26, Indian fighter jets violated Pakistani airspace, dropped bombs near Jaba, Balakot, and falsely claimed to have struck a “terror camp.”

In response, Pakistan launched Operation Swift Retort, an air combat mission that downed two Indian fighter jets and captured Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

One MiG-21 crashed inside Pakistan, while the wreckage of the second jet fell within Indian territory.

In a panic, the Indian military mistakenly shot down its own Mi-17 helicopter, killing six soldiers.

India’s propaganda machine went into overdrive, with contradictory reports on “300 casualties” and fabricated audio clips.

However, the Washington Post later debunked India’s claims, confirming that no F-16 jets were shot down, dismantling India’s narrative at an international level.

Operation Swift Retort remains a symbol of Pakistan’s military strength, professional excellence, and national unity. The country stands ready to defend its sovereignty against any future aggression.