Pakistan celebrates 'Surprise Day' to pay tribute to PAF's retaliatory action against India

Islamabad: The nation is celebrating ‘Surprise Day’ today to pay a tribute to the retaliatory attack by the Pakistan Air Force after India’s botched Balakot airstrike.

On Feb 27, 2019, the PAF carried out Operation Swift Retort and shot down two Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter aircraft and dropped bombs within the compounds of Indian military facilities in occupied Kashmir – as a warning to the country’s belligerent neighbour.

The Pakistani military had lived up to its promise to ‘surprise’ India in wake of any misadventure, saying that ‘uncalled-for aggression’ from the Indian military ‘would not go unpunished’.

The operation also resulted in the capture of an Indian pilot, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, after his Mig-21 was shot down. The pilot was later handed over to Indian authorities as ‘a goodwill gesture’.

In order to celebrate the Surprise Day, the PAF will hold an air show at the sea view on Feb 27.

Meanwhile, the Lahore Arts Council will hold different colorful programs in this regard today, the day when brave Pakistani Air Force destroyed two Indian aircraft in surprised airstrikes.

A celebration walk will also be arranged to celebrate the day.