Phantom. (Photo: Indian Army)
New Delhi: Phantom, an Indian Army dog, was killed during an anti-militant operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor region. Phantom, a four-year-old Belgian Malinois, served the Army since 2022 after getting trained from the Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps. The dog sustained fatal injuries while it was helping soldiers to advance against entrenched terrorists.
The operation resulted in the elimination of three terrorists, who were believed to have infiltrated from across the border.
According to an Army statement, Phantom, who was born on May 25, 2020, and posted to the region in August 2022, played a critical role in ensuring the containment of terrorists. The operation began on Monday when terrorists attacked an ambulance that was part of an Army convoy near the line of control (LoC). Phantom, who was part of the Army unit conducting the anti-militant operation, took on enemy fire and sustained fatal injuries.
The Army said Phantom’s actions were instrumental in tracking the terrorists’ trail amid the challenging jungle terrain. It said the heroic canine detected hidden explosives and identified potential escape routes, enabling troops to tighten the cordon around the terrorists.
Despite his injuries, Phantom continued to assist the troops until he succumbed to his wounds. His bravery and dedication were acknowledged by the Indian Army, which paid tribute to his supreme sacrifice.
