Aerial Display at Airfare Station Bhisiana on Kargil Vijay Divas Silver Jubilee 2024

Jalandhar, July 20, 2024: Kargil Vijay Diwas Silver Jubilee was celebrated with great pride and enthusiasm at Air Force Station Bhisiana to honour the bravery, valour and sacrifice rendered by the Indian Armed Forces in the service of the nation. This important event marks the 25th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil conflict in 1999 following the culmination of Operation Safed Sagar of the IAF and Operation Vijay of the Indian Army. It was indeed a significant milestone in the history of military aviation, with the successful use of air power against targets at such high altitudes. No. 17 Squadron of the IAF, operating MiG 21 Type 96 aircraft, also known as “Golden Arrows”, based at Air Force Station Bhisiana at that time, actively participated in the operation, undertaking numerous reconnaissance and attack missions to rout enemy troops.

In this direction, the squadron was awarded the prestigious 'Battle Honours' for its commendable service during the operation. This prestigious unit has won the highest number of honours and awards among the Air Force units that participated in Operation Safed Sagar, including a Vir Chakra awarded to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja (posthumously) for his bravery during the conflict.

On this occasion, Air Marshal PK Vohra, Senior Air Staff Officer, Western Air Command laid a wreath at the War Memorial at Air Force Station Bhisiana today. Former Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa (Retd), Alka Ahuja (wife of late Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja), Operation Safed Sagar award winners and IAF officers were also present at the event.

During the event, the Chief Guest felicitated the family members and interacted with them. Aerial displays were performed which included para-drop by Akash Ganga Skydiving Team, flypast in 'Vic' formation by three Rafale and three Jaguar fighter aircraft, slithering and Small Team Insertion and Extraction (STIE) operation by Mi-17 1V helicopter and low level aerobatics by Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The event also witnessed flypast in "Arrow Head" and "Missing Man" formation flown by MiG-29 aircraft in memory of the brave air warriors. The spectators were also mesmerized by the spectacular performance of the Air Force Band and Air Warrior Drill Team.
 
           
More than 5000 spectators including school children witnessed the aerial display which showcased bravery, precision and dedication of the air warriors and left an indelible impression on the younger generation about the conduct of Operation Safed Sagar by the Indian Air Force.
 

The Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations at Air Force Station Bhisiana not only honoured the bravery and sacrifice of the valiant soldiers but also reinforced the commitment of the younger generation to uphold the values of courage, dedication and patriotism that define our nation. As our nation looks to the future, the rich legacy of our heroes as reminded by this event will continue to inspire us to protect and serve with unwavering resolve.