NI Bureau
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) proudly marks the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War, a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of its air warriors during this pivotal chapter in military aviation history. The Kargil War (Operation Safed Sagar) showcased the IAF’s capability to surmount extreme operational challenges, such as steep gradients and altitudes exceeding 16,000 feet, which complicated enemy targeting efforts. The IAF’s swift technical adaptations and rigorous on-the-job training proved instrumental in their effective deployment of air power. Throughout the conflict, the IAF executed approximately 5,000 strike missions, 350 reconnaissance/ELINT missions, and 800 escort flights, in addition to over 2,000 helicopter sorties for casualty evacuations and air transport operations.
To honor 25 years of Kargil victory, the IAF is hosting the ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti’ at Air Force Station Sarsawa from July 12 to July 26, 2024. This event pays tribute to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. The 152 Helicopter Unit, ‘The Mighty Armour,’ based at Air Force Station Sarsawa, played a crucial role in Operation Safed Sagar. On May 28, 1999, Squadron Leader R. Pundir, Flight Lieutenant S. Muhilan, Sergeant P.V.N.R. Prasad, and Sergeant R.K. Sahu of the 152 HU conducted a live strike against enemy positions at Tololing as the ‘Nubra’ formation. Their mission was successful, but their helicopter was struck by an enemy Stinger missile during their withdrawal, resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. Their extraordinary courage was posthumously recognized with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry). Their sacrifice is permanently memorialized in the history of the IAF.
On July 13, 2024, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari, along with senior dignitaries, families of the fallen, veterans, and current IAF officers, laid a wreath at the Station War Memorial to honor all air warriors who have given their lives in service to the nation. During the event, the Chief of the Air Staff also acknowledged and interacted with the families of the deceased.
The celebration featured an impressive air show with performances by the Akash Ganga Team and aerial displays by Jaguar, Su-30 MKI, and Rafale fighter aircraft. A “Missing Man formation” was flown by Mi-17 V5 helicopters in tribute to the fallen heroes. The event also included a static display of IAF helicopters such as the Mi-17 V5, Cheetah, and Chinook, alongside performances by the Air Warrior Drill Team and the Air Force Band.
The event was attended by over 5,000 spectators, including school children, local residents from the Saharanpur area, veterans, civil dignitaries, and personnel from Defense Forces establishments in Roorkee, Dehradun, and Ambala.
Prateeksha Thakur
