By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - Pakistan on Thursday marked the first anniversary of its victory against India in its brief war last year as Inter-Services Public Relations described the military operation as a defining chapter in Pakistan’s defense history and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to maintaining a modern, future-ready military capability amid evolving regional security challenges.

In a statement issued from Rawalpindi on the night of May 6-7, the military said the anniversary particularly honored the role of the Pakistan Air Force, which it credited with demonstrating operational excellence, technological advancement, and the ability to conduct complex multi-domain operations.

The military said the operation strengthened national confidence and reflected years of modernization efforts, including the induction of advanced systems and what it described as “niche and disruptive technologies” designed to adapt to the changing nature of modern warfare.

“By mastering the skillful employment of Multi-domain Operations, Pakistan Air Force continues to consolidate itself into a future-focused and capable air power,” the statement said, adding that the operations were unprecedented in scope and showcased the force’s preparedness to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The statement refers “Marka-e-Haq”  a military confrontation between Pakistan and India in May 2025, when tensions sharply escalated following cross-border strikes and aerial engagements between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Pakistan air force had shot down several Indian fighter jets and carried out retaliatory operations against Indian military targets.

The crisis raised fears of a wider regional war before international diplomatic efforts, including mediation initiatives involving the United States and Gulf countries, helped secure a ceasefire.

Pakistan’s military said the anniversary also served as a reminder of the country’s broader strategic posture, describing Pakistan as a “peace-loving country” whose armed forces remain committed to preserving regional peace and stability.

“At the same time, peace for Pakistan has always been inseparable from honour, dignity and sovereign equality,” the statement said.

The military added that Pakistan’s armed forces remain fully aware of changing geopolitical and regional security dynamics, including what it described as “aggressive capability pursuits of adversarial forces.” It said the armed forces are continuing to invest in advanced technologies, critical capabilities, and professional training to prepare for future warfare scenarios.

“Any hostile design against Pakistan will be countered with even greater strength, precision and resolve far stronger than what was witnessed by the adversary during Marka-e-Haq,” the statement added.

The military also paid tribute to Pakistan Air Force and Armed Forces personnel for their professionalism, sacrifice and operational focus during the conflict, calling the force “Second to None” and a symbol of national pride and confidence.

The anniversary comes amid continued security tensions in South Asia, where both Pakistan and India have accelerated military modernization programs and expanded investments in advanced air defense systems, drones, cyber warfare, and precision-strike capabilities following the 2025 confrontation.