The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 is often remembered for its intense and large-scale tank battles, some of the biggest the world had seen since World War II. This conflict showcased the armored might of both India and Pakistan, with battles like Asal Uttar and Khem Karan becoming legendary for the sheer number of tanks used and destroyed.
A common and important question that arises in this context is: How many tanks were destroyed in the 1965 war? This article provides a detailed, factual, and analytical answer, supported by historical records and military assessments.
Background: Tank Warfare in 1965
The 1965 war, fought between August and September, was primarily over the disputed territory of Kashmir. However, it soon escalated into a full-scale war across the Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu sectors.
Key Tank Battles of the War:
- Battle of Asal Uttar (near Khem Karan)
- Battle of Phillora
- Battle of Chawinda
- Battle of Sialkot
These battles involved hundreds of tanks on both sides, especially in the fertile plains of Punjab, which were ideal for armored warfare.
India and Pakistan: Tank Strength in 1965
Pakistan Army:
- At the start of the war, Pakistan had around 765 tanks.
- Most notable were the American-made M47 and M48 Patton tanks.
- Pakistan also had Sherman and Chaffee tanks, though they were relatively outdated.
Indian Army:
- India fielded about 720 tanks.
- Primarily used British Centurion tanks, AMX-13 light tanks (French origin), and Sherman variants.
- Despite being considered technologically inferior to Pattons, Indian tanks were well-handled and strategically deployed.
Tank Losses During the 1965 War
Total Tank Losses:
- Pakistan is estimated to have lost around 350–400 tanks.
- India lost approximately 150–190 tanks.
The estimates vary depending on the sources—some Indian sources claim higher Pakistani losses, while Pakistani narratives report lower figures. However, most neutral military analysts agree on a rough 2:1 ratio in India’s favor.
Key Battle: Asal Uttar – Graveyard of Patton Tanks
One of the most defining tank engagements was the Battle of Asal Uttar, which took place near Khem Karan in Punjab.
What Happened:
- Pakistan launched an offensive using 135+ Patton tanks, aiming to break through to capture Amritsar.
- The Indian Army’s 4th Mountain Division created a horseshoe-shaped defensive trap and flooded the sugarcane fields, making the ground swampy and unsuitable for heavy tanks.
- Indian Centurions and anti-tank guns picked off the bogged-down Pattons.
Outcome:
- Over 97 Pakistani tanks were destroyed or captured.
- India lost about 10–15 tanks in this sector.
- The area became known as the “Graveyard of Pattons.”
- India captured 28 Patton tanks intact, which are displayed in museums and military academies today.
Other Major Battles and Tank Losses
Battle of Phillora:
- Took place in the Sialkot sector.
- India’s 1st Armoured Division launched an offensive against Pakistani positions.
- India destroyed around 66 Pakistani tanks and lost 6–10.
Battle of Chawinda:
- One of the largest tank battles after WWII, involving more than 300 tanks on each side.
- Intense and prolonged combat from September 11–22.
- Casualties on both sides were heavy, but the battle ended in a stalemate.
- Estimated tank losses:
- Pakistan: 120+ tanks
- India: 60–80 tanks
Why Did Pakistan Lose More Tanks?
Several tactical and strategic factors contributed to Pakistan’s higher tank losses:
1. Overconfidence in Patton Tanks:
- The Pattons were considered advanced but were not suited for India’s flooded and muddy terrain.
- Their larger size and weight made them less maneuverable in the sugarcane fields of Punjab.
2. Indian Defensive Strategy:
- India used natural terrain advantages like flooded fields to immobilize enemy tanks.
- Anti-tank ambushes, coordinated artillery fire, and infantry support proved devastating for Pakistan.
3. Superior Use of Centurion Tanks:
- The British-made Centurions were tactically superior in Indian hands.
- Their high-velocity 105 mm guns and heavy armor made them formidable against Pattons.
4. Training and Coordination:
- Indian tank crews were better trained in close coordination with infantry and air support.
- Pakistan’s tank formations often advanced too quickly without sufficient infantry backup.
Global Perspective on the Tank Battles
International observers, including American and British military analysts, were impressed by the scale and ferocity of the 1965 armored clashes. It marked one of the largest deployments of tanks in post-WWII history.
The Asal Uttar battle was even studied in military academies globally as an example of how tactical planning and terrain advantage can overcome superior technology.
Post-War Analysis: Strategic and Psychological Impact
India’s Successes:
- Despite older tanks, India proved that strategy and training outweigh technology.
- The destruction of Patton tanks served as a huge morale boost.
- India improved its armored corps doctrine, leading to future victories (e.g., 1971 war).
Pakistan’s Losses:
- The destruction of its much-touted Patton fleet was a psychological blow.
- Questions were raised internally about leadership, planning, and execution.
- Many of the destroyed tanks were supplied by the United States, leading to criticism of Pakistan’s dependence on foreign military aid.
Modern-Day Legacy
Today, remnants of the 1965 tank battles are displayed as war trophies:
- Patton Nagar (Patton Town) near Bhikiwind, Punjab, displays captured Pakistani tanks.
- Indian military museums feature tanks from the 1965 war to educate and inspire future generations.
- The battles are still remembered during Army Day, Vijay Diwas, and Tank Regiment anniversaries.
Conclusion
In summary, the 1965 India-Pakistan War witnessed the destruction of approximately 500–600 tanks, making it one of the most significant tank wars since WWII. Pakistan lost about 350–400 tanks, while India lost around 150–190.
Battles like Asal Uttar, Phillora, and Chawinda showcased not just brute firepower, but the power of strategy, terrain advantage, and effective leadership. The war left behind a legacy that reshaped the armored warfare doctrines of both nations.