Indian Air Force Celebrates Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti at Air Force Station Sarsawa

Sarsawa, Uttar Presh: Indian Air Force (IAF) is commemorating 25 years of its historic victory in Kargil War of 1999 through 'Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti' at Air Force Station Sarsawa. This celebration, from July 12 to July 26, 2024, honours courage and sacrifice of air warriors who played a pivotal role in Operation Safed Sagar. Kargil War remains a significant milestone in military aviation history, demonstrating IAF's capability to overcome extreme challenges of high-altitude warfare.  

Operation Safed Sagar was marked by IAF executing around 5,000 strike missions, 350 reconnaissance/ELINT missions, and 800 escort flights. IAF also conducted over 2,000 helicopter sorties for casualty evacuations and air transport operations. se operations were critical in overcoming steep grients and dizzying altitudes of over 16,000 feet, which posed unique operational difficulties in targeting enemy.  

Honouring Fallen Heroes  

To honour brave hearts of Kargil War, Air Force Station Sarsawa is hosting various events and ceremonies. 152 Helicopter Unit, known as ' Mighty Armour,' played a crucial role during Op Safed Sagar. On May 28, 1999, Sqn Ldr R Pundir, Flt Lt S Muhilan, Sgt PVNR Pras, and Sgt RK Sahu were tasked with a live strike against enemy positions at Tololing. Tragically, ir helicopter was hit by an enemy Stinger Missile during mission, resulting in loss of four precious lives. For ir exceptional bravery, y were posthumously awarded Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry).

On July 13, 2024, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, along with senior dignitaries, families of brave hearts, veterans, and serving IAF officers, laid a wreath at Station War Memorial. This act paid tribute to all air warriors who laid down ir lives in service to nation. CAS also interacted with next-of-kin, recognizing ir immense sacrifice and contribution.  

Mi-17 V5 Helicopters Fly in ‘Missing Man formation’  

commemoration event featured a spectacular air show, including performances by 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 memory of fallen heroes. ditionally, a static display of IAF helicopters, such as Mi-17 V5, Cheetah, and Chinook, was organized, along with performances by Air Warrior Drill Team and Air Force Band.

event witnessed participation of over 5,000 spectators, including school children, residents of Saharanpur area, veterans, civil dignitaries, and personnel from Defence Forces establishments in Roorkee, Dehrun, and Ambala. se celebrations highlight IAF's dedication to honouring its history and sacrifices of its air warriors.  

Operation Safed Sagar  

Kargil War remains a testament to IAF's operational excellence and unwavering spirit of its personnel. 'Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti' celebrations not only commemorate victory but also serve as a reminder of bravery and sacrifice of Indian Air Force. Through se events, IAF continues to inspire future generations and reinforce its commitment to nation's security and sovereignty.  

During Operation Safed Sagar, a total of 7,831 sorties were flown by various s of aircraft of Indian Air Force. distribution of se sorties is as follows:

• Transport Aircraft: 3,427 sorties, accounting for 44.9% of total effort.  
• Helicopters: 2,474 sorties, contributing to 32.4% of overall effort.  
• Fighters: 1,730 sorties, making up 22.7% of total effort.  

Breakdown of Air Operations by Task (Fast Jets)

• Air Strikes: 578 sorties, representing 48% of total effort.  
• Combat Air Patrol (CAP) & Escort: 462 sorties, accounting for 39% of effort.  
• Reconnaissance (Recce): 159 sorties, comprising 13% of total effort.   

limited war experience provided critical lessons for Indian Air Force, leing to significant upgres in its combat fleet. In early 2000s, India began acquiring and co-developing Sukhoi Su-30MKI heavy fighters with Russia. ditionally, development of HAL Tejas was accelerated to enhance indigenous capabilities of Air Force.