The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday commemorated its significant contribution during the Kargil War, 25 years ago, where it conducted thousands of strike missions and helicopter sorties to support the Army’s efforts against adversaries.
To honor the silver jubilee of the 1999 Kargil victory, the IAF is celebrating ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti’ at Air Force Station Sarsawa from July 12-26. The event pays tribute to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives for the nation, according to a statement by the Ministry of Defence.
On Saturday, IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari laid a wreath at the Station War Memorial, paying homage to the fallen air warriors. He also interacted with and felicitated many next of kin during the event.
A spectacular air show, featuring performances by the Akash Ganga Team and aerial displays by Jaguar, Su-30 MKI, and Rafale fighter aircraft, was organized. Additionally, a ‘Missing Man’ formation was flown by Mi-17 V5 helicopters in memory of the fallen heroes.
The event also showcased a static display of IAF helicopters including Mi-17 V5, Cheetah, and Chinook, along with performances by the Air Warrior Drill Team and the Air Force Band.
The celebrations were witnessed by over 5,000 spectators, including school children, local residents of the Saharanpur area, veterans, civil dignitaries, and personnel from defence establishments in Roorkee, Dehradun, and Ambala.
The IAF highlighted its proud legacy of courage and sacrifice by its gallant air warriors during the Kargil War, which marked a significant milestone in the history of military aviation. The statement emphasized the IAF’s ability to overcome the unique operational challenges posed by the steep gradients and high altitudes of above 16,000 ft during ‘Op Safed Sagar’.
“Overall, the IAF flew around 5,000 strike missions, 350 reconnaissance/ELINT missions, and approximately 800 escort flights.
Additionally, the IAF conducted over 2,000 helicopter sorties for casualty evacuations and air transport operations,” the ministry noted.
The 152 Helicopter Unit, ‘The Mighty Armour’, from Air Force Station Sarsawa, played a crucial role during ‘Op Safed Sagar’.
On May 28, 1999, Sqn Ldr R Pundir, Flt Lt S Muhilan, Sgt PVNR Prasad, and Sgt R K Sahu of 152 HU executed a live strike against enemy positions at Tololing. Tragically, their helicopter was hit by an enemy Stinger Missile, resulting in the loss of four lives. They were posthumously awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for their exceptional courage.
The Ministry of Defence also posted a video on X, marking the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War victory. “On this day, 25 years ago, #OperationVijay was declared a resounding success. Our soldiers stood tall amidst the Kargil heights, their extraordinary bravery and heroism a source of immense national pride and honour. #25YearsofKargilVijay,” it posted.
The war concluded on July 26, 1999, with the Indian forces successfully pushing back the Pakistani intruders from the strategic heights in Ladakh.