About Bugle & Trumpet

As a publication with the love of military history at its core, Bugle & Trumpet (B&T) aims at providing readers with a diverse cross-section of articles that showcase different aspects of military history, and attempts to do so in a readable manner. It tells the stories of unsung heroes and living legends, and celebrates individual acts of courage. It attempts to stimulate intellectual probity and foster a fondness for this all-important, yet oft-neglected subject.

By means of its interactive nature, whereby readers may freely contribute their anecdotes, personal experiences, photographs and musings, it aims at becoming a publication which is anticipated; a place which every military history enthusiast in Pakistan might call home.

The views expressed in Bugle & Trumpet are those of the authors and do not reflect those of AIMH. All content is the intellectual property of AIMH and may be reproduced or quoted with due credit to the author and B&T. Readers are invited to contribute for the B&T. Original articles related to military history, upto 2000 words in font size 12 (Times New Roman) with double line spacing, on A-4 size paper, alongwith relevant details like photographs, maps or sketches may be sent both in hard and soft form to the editor. Endnotes (Chicago Style) and a brief biographic note of the author, including passport size photograph. are required. Contributors will be paid a remuneration @ Rs. 3/- per word. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject contributions.

Current Issue

Pacifying the Northern Frontier Gilgit Agency Under British Rule

Dear readers,

The Winter 2025 issue is presented as an endeavour to stimulate the curiosity of military history enthusiasts. Significant highlights of this issue are strategic planning, operational acumen and national defence policy, that are relevant to contemporary and future military professionals.

The issue opens with the analytical article of a military victory achieved against overwhelming odds. It describes how historically, militarily weaker forces have defeated stronger adversaries through innovation, leadership and offensive spirit. Referring to case studies of the Battle of Badr, Battle of Yarmuk, the Russo-Finnish War (1939-40), the Six-Day Arab-Israel War (1967), and Marka-e-Haq (Pakistan-India, May 2025), the author explains that numerical superiority in arms alone does not guarantee military victory.

OPERATION CURZON (December 1947) presents a valuable insight into decision-making during Pakistan’s formative period, examining how limited resources, uncertain political conditions and operational urgency shaped battlefield realities. It also contributes meaningfully to the understanding of Pakistan’s military experience in its earliest days.

On the Breakthrough in Chhamb in 1965 provides a detailed battle account of the Chhamb sector offensive during 1965 Indo-Pakistan War. It focusses on the coordinated operations of 11 Cavalry and 9 Punjab, and describes how problems like limited information, difficult terrain and communication were overcome through initiative, leadership and the cooperation of infantry and armour.

The Epic of Akhaura narrates the heroic stand of 12 Frontier Force Regiment during the Battle of Akhaura (30 November–5 December 1971), when the battalion held off an Indian division for six days, despite being outnumbered, outgunned and isolated. Set against the broader backdrop of the 1971 War in East Pakistan, it highlights the strategic importance of Akhaura as a key communication hub, guarding approaches to the Meghna River crossings.

The Sixth Column of Malaya deliberates upon the evolution of a hero, recounts the tale of a subaltern’s extraordinary courage, calculated resistance and extreme endurance against the worst odds. It shows his deep political insight to anticipate the plot to subdue the Muslims of India after British departure, under Hindu rule.

As always, this magazine remains committed to preserving military history with authenticity, balance and respect for those who served. We hope that this issue will inform, educate and inspire readers of military history.

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