Wed Dec 04 14:17:44 UTC 2024: ## Indian Navy Day: Remembering the 1971 Triumph Over Pakistan
**New Delhi, December 4** – India celebrated Navy Day today, commemorating the Indian Navy’s crucial role in the 1971 war that led to the liberation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). The day marks the anniversary of the devastating attack on Karachi harbor, a pivotal moment in the conflict.
On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched air strikes on Indian air bases, prompting a full-scale war. While the Indian Air Force retaliated, the Navy’s actions proved decisive. Under the command of Vice Admiral S.N. Kohli, the Western Naval Command launched Operation Trident. The “Killer Squadron,” comprising missile boats INS Nirghat, INS Nipat, and INS Veer, equipped with surface-to-surface missiles, targeted Pakistani naval vessels.
Operation Trident resulted in the destruction of PNS Khaibar, a Pakistani navy ship, and the sinking of a vessel carrying arms for the Pakistani army. INS Nipat, after crippling a Pakistani ship, used its remaining missile to strike Karachi harbor, causing significant damage, including a fire at the Keamari oil refinery that burned for days. Subsequently, Operation Python, involving INS Vinash, Talwar, and Trishul, eliminated PNS Dhaka.
The Indian Navy’s actions in 1971 were instrumental in weakening Pakistan’s naval capabilities and significantly contributed to the liberation of Bangladesh. The bravery and strategic prowess displayed during Operation Trident and Operation Python remain a defining moment in the history of the Indian Navy. Navy Day serves as an annual reminder of this vital contribution to India’s national security.
First Piper 