Admiral Shahid Karimullah’s life is a testament to the intersection of military leadership and personal sacrifice. From commanding gunboats in the turbulent waters of East Pakistan during the 1971 War to redefining Pakistan Navy's future, his journey reflects the resilience and strategic foresight of a nation at war.

Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R), a man whose name resonates with honor and resilience, is not merely a military officer but a living testament to the intricate dance between duty, history, and personal sacrifice. Born on February 14, 1948, in a family with deep roots in Hyderabad Deccan, Admiral Karimullah’s story unfolds against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world—one where the tides of war, politics, and technological advancements are constantly in flux.
His journey began in 1968, when he was commissioned into the Pakistan Navy, a force that would define his career and shape the course of his life. Admiral Karimullah’s training took him to the United States Naval War College, where he honed his strategic acumen, and to Pakistan’s National Defense College, where he absorbed the intricacies of his country’s military landscape. By the time he assumed command of various naval vessels, including destroyers and the 25th Destroyer Squadron, he had already built a reputation for calm under pressure, an essential trait for navigating the perilous waters of military leadership.
However, it was during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War that Admiral Karimullah truly etched his name in history. Commanding a gunboat in the turbulent waters of East Pakistan, he faced the harrowing reality of war, where survival hinged not only on tactical prowess but on sheer grit. He was seriously injured in the line of duty, yet his courage did not go unnoticed. His actions earned him the Sitara-i-Jurat (SJ), a prestigious military honor. It was an early indication of a career that would be decorated with multiple awards, including the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (SI), Hilal-i-Imtiaz (HI), Nishan-i-Imtiaz (NI) (M), and France’s Legion of Honor—each a reflection of his unwavering dedication to his nation.
Yet, like all great military leaders, Admiral Karimullah's life was not defined solely by his accolades. From 2002 to 2005, he served as the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS). After his naval service, he went on to serve as Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 2005 to 2009.
In this exclusive interview with Hilal Magazine, Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R) reflects on his experiences, offering invaluable insights into the 1971 War, the challenges of command, and the profound lessons learned from a time that shaped the very essence of Pakistan’s military identity. His reflections are not merely about past events—they are a window into the mind of a man who lived through the most defining moments of his nation’s history, offering a perspective that is both personal and universal. Through his words, we gain not just an understanding of military strategy, but a deeper appreciation of the sacrifices, complexities, and nuances that shape a nation's destiny.
Q: You were directly involved in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, serving in East Pakistan during a time when India’s interference and support for Mukti Bahini forces escalated tensions. How do you view India's actions in East Pakistan?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): Yes, I was directly involved in the Indo-Pak War of 1971. The tensions had been escalating for some time before the creation of the Mukti Bahini forces. However, these tensions transformed into direct confrontation when India began providing full support to the Mukti Bahini, offering training, weapons, and financial assistance. India’s actions were unmistakably aimed at severing East Pakistan from West Pakistan. Once India recognized the Bengali revolt against Pakistan and saw the growing support for its cause, it emboldened them to take decisive actions toward achieving their objective.
Q: Given your extensive experience in the Navy and senior leadership roles, how do you perceive India’s involvement in the 1971 War as part of a broader pattern of external interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): India has never truly accepted the creation of Pakistan and has always been determined to dismember it if given the chance. The events of 1971 presented them with what they saw as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and they seized it, ultimately achieving their objective.
Q. You served in the 1971 War while commanding a gunboat in East Pakistan. Could you briefly describe your role and the operational environment you faced during the conflict?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): While commanding a gunboat in East Pakistan, I encountered a challenging operational environment. Upon arriving in East Pakistan in August 1971, I was met with a situation that contrasted with the information we had received in West Pakistan before our departure. My role was somewhat flexible and evolved as the situation unfolded. Primarily, I was tasked with patrolling areas that were under threat from Mukti Bahini forces, as well as escorting Army boats carrying personnel, ammunition, and supplies to ensure their safe passage.
Q: You were seriously wounded in action during the war. Can you share some details of the incident and how it shaped your perspective on combat?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): Once hostilities were officially declared and the 1971 Indo-Pak War began on December 3, 1971, my gunboat Shujaat was deployed to Bhairab Bazar to provide gunfire support to army units against air attacks and to protect the bridge linking the eastern landmass of the river with the western part. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) aircraft were grounded because Dacca Airport (now know as Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport), their base, had been extensively bombed, rendering them unable to operate. As a result, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and even their helicopters had free rein, attacking targets at will. At this stage, I and other Pakistan Navy Gunboats were ordered to return to our bases. In compliance with these orders, I began sailing back to my base at Narayanganj.

I recalled lessons from our instructors at the Academy about the phases of an enemy aircraft attack and how to execute sporadic maneuvers by the gunboat to dodge the enemy aircraft once their flight path was committed to an attack run.

En route, around noon, my crew sighted an Indian helicopter following us while maintaining a safe distance. Based on my training and the experience of the preceding weeks, I knew an attack by IAF aircraft would soon follow. I warned my crew members of the impending attack. As the only officer on board, I focused on maneuvering and navigating the boat in preparation for the attack. As expected, two IAF Hunter aircraft soon appeared from the direction where the helicopter had been operating. These aircraft approached the boat one at a time. I maneuvered the boat to bring maximum firepower to bear on the Hunter aircraft at a closer distance. I then rushed toward the forward gun to direct the gunner, but we were effectively sitting ducks. The aircraft fired rockets from a standoff range of 3,000 meters, followed by cannon fire, while our weapons had a maximum range of only 1,500 meters.
In the very first run, the aimer on the .50 mm gun was hit by a rocket fired from the aircraft, tearing open his stomach. He was bleeding profusely and fell near my feet, asking for water. Soon after, he embraced Shahadat. I took over the gun and began firing at the second aircraft as it came in for another attack. Although I opened fire, it was in vain. Meanwhile, a splinter from a rocket fired by the aircraft pierced my left arm, rendering it lifeless. The injury caused me to fall, and when I tried to get up, I slipped on the deck due to my blood.
However, I quickly realized that all was not lost—though the guns were knocked out of action, the boat's engines, watertight integrity, and steering remained intact. I recalled lessons from our instructors at the Academy about the phases of an enemy aircraft attack and how to execute sporadic maneuvers by the gunboat to dodge the enemy aircraft once their flight path was committed to an attack run. At this stage, observing the first Hunter inbound for another attack, I waited for the opportune moment and executed a sporadic maneuver once I felt it was committed to launching the attack. Alhamdulillah, the tactic was successful, and we saw the cannon fire miss our boat, landing in the water instead. We repeated this tactic successfully when the second Hunter aircraft came in for its second attack. Thankfully, both aircraft discontinued any further attacks and left the area.
I returned to the bridge, tied my limp and lifeless arm to my waist belt, and stuffed cotton into the bleeding wounds. By this time, I was in severe pain and had to inject myself with painkiller shots, as I was the sole member on board conversant with navigation. We continued our passage to Narayanganj, arriving approximately three hours later. According to reports from bystanders, the entire crew, barring a few, was injured. There were also the bodies of crew members onboard, while a few were accounted for as having been lost overboard. All the injured, including myself, were evacuated to the CMH in Dacca.
This incident left a deep impact on my mind. The best lesson I learned was how to overcome the inbuilt fear that everyone suffers from. This helped me throughout my career to take bold decisions.
Q: You were awarded the Sitara-i-Jurat for exceptional gallantry. What was your reaction to receiving such an honor, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): The news of my being awarded the Sitara-i-Jurat (SJ) reached my colleagues via Radio Pakistan news, and this happened while I was in a Prisoner of War (POW) camp. Anyone would feel proud of such an acknowledgment from their service and country, and I am deeply grateful to the Pakistan Navy for bestowing me with this honor. My sense of pride would have been even greater had we won the war.
Q: Commanding forces in a high-pressure environment like East Pakistan must have been daunting. How did you manage your team and maintain morale under such difficult circumstances?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): I never commanded a large force. I was leading my gunboat crew, which consisted of only 16 personnel, with no other officer on board except myself. My leadership was based on setting a personal example. What I learned during this period was that your men always look to you—your behavior in difficult situations, your confidence in decision-making, and your boldness and bravery.

Observing the first Hunter inbound for another attack, I waited for the opportune moment and executed a sporadic maneuver once I felt it was committed to launching the attack. Alhamdulillah, the tactic was successful, and we saw the cannon fire miss our boat, landing in the water instead.

Q: Reflecting on the 1971 War, are there any specific incidents or moments that stand out as particularly defining for you, either in terms of military strategy or personal experience?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): My experience taught me that to lead men, Higher Command must provide motivation and a clear, convincing cause. During my time in East Pakistan, I often wondered why I was there and what the true purpose was. Before arriving, we were told we were going to secure Pakistani territory and protect our Bengali brothers and sisters. However, upon landing, I encountered a largely hostile attitude from the public, except for the Beharis and members of Jamaat-e-Islami. I found myself questioning the cause—here we were, sent to protect the Bengalis, yet many seemed to reject us. It was only when Indian forces became directly involved that we found a clear cause to fight for, and we all fought bravely.
Q: Looking back, what lessons from the 1971 War have stayed with you throughout your military and diplomatic career?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): The major lesson I learned from the 1971 War and the subsequent period as a POW is that it is a great blessing from Allah that we remain an independent country. Being a prisoner is humiliating, insulting, and degrading. May Allah protect our country from ever becoming subservient to anyone. I have consistently emphasized this to all officers, especially the younger ones, whenever I had the opportunity to address them.
Q: In your view, how did the naval forces' contributions during the 1971 War shape the future of Pakistan's naval strategy and operations?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): The 1971 war and the losses suffered by the Pakistan Navy had a lasting impact on its future strategy. In response, the Navy reassessed and rewrote its strategic approach, adapting to the changing dynamics of warfare. Today, the Navy's surface fleet consists of modern, technologically advanced ships. Whereas in the past, the Navy's strategy was primarily defensive, it now places greater emphasis on offensive capabilities.
Q: Given your later distinguished career, how do you view the legacy of the 1971 War, especially with respect to the Pakistan Navy’s role and its evolution in the years that followed?
Admiral Shahid Karimullah (R): In the 1971 War, the Pakistan Navy was not adequately prepared to defend East Pakistan. It was a conflict forced upon us with little warning. On the western front, despite the numerical superiority of the enemy in terms of both units and equipment, the Pakistan Navy performed admirably. The submarine service, in particular, exceeded expectations. The Indians lost a frigate, and another was damaged, while their aircraft carrier remained confined to harbor due to the threat posed by our submarines. Given the relatively small size of the Pakistan Navy compared to the Indian Navy, we performed remarkably well.
In Admiral Shahid Karimullah’s reflections, we uncover not only the harrowing realities of war but also the strength that comes from confronting fear, upholding duty, and striving for a nation's survival. His unwavering commitment to his country and his profound understanding of leadership continue to resonate, offering timeless lessons for future generations. Through the lens of his experiences, the evolving role of Pakistan’s naval forces is clearer, highlighting how history’s defining moments shape the present and the future alike.