Rawalpindi, February 25, 2025: The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has released a new patriotic anthem, Dushmanna Sunn, to commemorate the sixth anniversary of Operation Swift Retort, a landmark moment in Pakistan’s military history.
The operation, conducted on February 27, 2019, saw the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) shoot down two Indian fighter jets after they allegedly violated Pakistani airspace. One of the pilots, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, was captured and later released as a goodwill gesture by Pakistan.
According to an ISPR statement, the newly released song embodies the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Armed Forces to defend the nation’s sovereignty.
“The events of February 27 stand as a testament to the professionalism of our military and the resilience of our nation,” the statement read.
The song’s lyrics were penned by Ahmed Azeem, while Kamran Allah Khan composed and performed it.
ISPR described Dushmanna Sunn as a “roar against any adversary”, reinforcing the message that Pakistan will always respond decisively to any act of aggression.
Operation Swift Retort remains a defining chapter in Pakistan’s military history, often cited as an example of the country’s preparedness and strategic deterrence.
On February 27, 2019, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated dramatically after a series of aerial engagements over the disputed Kashmir region.
PAF claimed it conducted airstrikes in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and shot down an Indian fighter jet in retaliation for an earlier Indian incursion.
A day earlier, Indian jets had entered Pakistani airspace, claiming to have targeted a militant camp.
These incidents marked one of the most significant escalations between the two nuclear-armed nations in recent years.
Later in 2019, on August 5, the Indian government revoked Article 370, stripping IIOJK of its special status and reorganizing it into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The move was accompanied by a communication blackout and an increased military presence, drawing widespread criticism.
Pakistan continues to reject India’s unilateral actions in Kashmir, calling for a UN-mandated plebiscite in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.
As Pakistan marks the sixth anniversary of Operation Swift Retort, the release of Dushmanna Sunn serves as a reminder of the nation’s resolve and a tribute to the bravery of its armed forces.