- The Squadron was the first to respond during Morbi tragedy on 30 October 2022
- The Squadron was adjudged the best Transport Squadron of South Western Air Command for the year 2022
- The event on 18 November 2023 captivated the audience with performances by Akash Ganga Skydiving Team and the Air warrior Drill Team.
NE NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD, NOV 19
The ‘Himalayan Eagles’, a transport squadron of Indian Air Force (IAF), commemorated its Diamond Jubilee on Friday and Saturday, November 17-18, 2023. It was formed in response to the Chinese aggression on 01 March 1963 at Chandigarh to strengthen our supply lines to the Army in the North.
The Himalayan Eagles have successfully operated the fleet of transport aircraft, including AN-12, IL-76 and AN-32. The Unit had served as a ‘Life Line’ for the Northern Sector. Hence, they were also called ‘The Saviors of the North’. The Squadron played a vital role in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak conflicts.
The An-12’s of the Unit led the legendary Battalion Group drop at Tangail in erstwhile East Pakistan during the 1971 war. The Unit has the distinction of being the only Squadron in IAF to have operated IL-76 and An-32 aircraft together, till 2011, after which it was relocated to its current location at Vadodara with An-32 aircraft. The Squadron was awarded with the President’s Standards on 18 December 2012.
Today, the Squadron is the torch bearer of all Transport Operations, including Humanitarian Aid in South West Region of the Country. The Squadron was the first to respond during Morbi tragedy on 30 October 2022. The Squadron has executed many time sensitive Casualty Evacuation missions, including, transporting live hearts and critically ill patients along with being an air bridge for armament and logistic support in the region. The Squadron executed Landing on Gandev – Bakhasar Highway in Rajasthan in September 2021, thus enhancing the tactical reach of the IAF. The Squadron was adjudged the best Transport Squadron of South Western Air Command for the year 2022. ‘Himalayan Eagles’ continues to embody the spirit of its motto.
‘Satvadeena hi Sidhvayah’ (Excellence through diligence)
A series of events were held at Air Force Station Vadodara to celebrate Diamond Jubilee of the Squadron which is testament to its six decades of unparalleled dedication, valour and excellence. The chief guest of the event, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari AVSM VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command unveiled the First Day Cover, which is a symbol of honor and recognition for the Squadron’s outstanding achievements and glorious history. The event was also graced by Air Vice Marshal Yalla Umesh VSM, Commodore Commandant, of the Squadron. A significant presence of a large number of Air Veterans and Serving Officers, added a nostalgic touch to the event.
A series of enthralled episodes, each with a unique message was organised by Himalayan Eagles led by the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Kumar Saurabh Gupta. The events included ‘Give Back to Nature’ Tree Plantation Drive, ‘Fit India’ Friendly Cricket Match, ‘Swachh Bharat Swasth Bharat’ Plogging Drive, ‘Rashtriya Ekta’ Cycling Expedition to Statue of Unity and ‘Padhega India’ motivational Interaction with School Students. The event on 18 November 2023 captivated the audience with performances by Akash Ganga Skydiving Team and the Air warrior Drill Team.
