Role of the Indian Navy in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965

Background

The tension between India and Pakistan was high in the mid-1960s, especially after the 1965 elections in Pakistan. The elections had resulted in a victory for the military dictator, General Ayub Khan, who had taken power in a coup in 1958. Ayub Khan was determined to wrest control of Kashmir from India and had launched several attacks on Indian border posts in the months leading up to the war. On 6th September 1965, Pakistan launched a full-scale attack on India, starting the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965.

Role of the Indian Navy

The Indian Navy played a crucial role in the war, especially in the naval blockade of Karachi. This blockade was a strategic move to cut off Pakistan's sea lines of communication and prevent the transport of war material from other countries. It was also intended to put pressure on Pakistan to end the war.

The Indian Navy launched Operation Trident, which was a surprise attack on Karachi harbour. The operation was carried out by three missile boats, INS Nipat, INS Nirghat, and INS Veer, which had been modified to carry anti-ship missiles. The attack was launched on the night of 4th December 1965, and all three boats fired their missiles at Pakistani ships in the harbour. The attack was a huge success, and several Pakistani ships were destroyed, including a destroyer and a minesweeper.

After the success of Operation Trident, the Indian Navy launched another operation, known as Operation Python. This was a follow-up to Operation Trident and involved the deployment of two more missile boats, INS Vidyut and INS Vinash, to attack Pakistani ships in the harbour. The attack was launched on the night of 8th December 1965, and several more Pakistani ships were destroyed.

The naval blockade of Karachi had a significant impact on Pakistan's ability to wage war. The destruction of Pakistani ships in the harbour prevented the transport of war material, and the blockade also made it difficult for Pakistan to export its products. As a result, Pakistan was forced to rely on air transport, which was more expensive and less efficient.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Indian Navy played a crucial role in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965. The naval blockade of Karachi was a strategic move that put pressure on Pakistan to end the war. The success of Operation Trident and Operation Python showed the capabilities of the Indian Navy, and the destruction of Pakistani ships in the harbour had a significant impact on Pakistan's ability to wage war. The role of the Indian Navy in the war was a testament to the bravery and determination of Indian sailors, and their contribution to the war effort should never be forgotten.