Published on: April 15, 2024
OPERATION MEGHDOOT
OPERATION MEGHDOOT
- Launch of Operation Meghdoot
- Initiated on April 13, 1984, by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) in response to Pakistani actions in Siachen.
- IAF had been operating in Siachen since 1978, using Chetak helicopters.
- Reasons Behind Operation
- Concerns over Pakistan’s cartographic aggression and mountaineering expeditions in Siachen.
- Intelligence suggested Pakistani military intentions in the area.
- IAF’s Role in Operation Meghdoot
- Airlifted Indian Army soldiers, transported supplies using An-12s, An-32s, and IL-76s.
- Deployed helicopters like Mi-17, Mi-8, Chetak, and Cheetah for high-altitude operations.
- Facilitated positioning of troops on strategic peaks and passes.
- Expansion of IAF’s Role
- Started with transport and helicopter operations, later expanded to fighter aircraft.
- Hunter aircraft initiated fighter operations from Leh in 1984.
- Fighter Operations
- Conducted over the glacier, boosting morale and deterring adversaries.
- MiG-23s, MiG-29s, Rafale, Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, and others deployed.
- IAF’s Adaptation to Extreme Conditions
- Continued operations in extreme temperatures and altitudes.
- Inducted new aircraft like Cheetal helicopters in 2009, landed C-130J Super Hercules at Daulat Beg Oldie in 2013.
- Ongoing Support
- IAF plays a crucial role in maintaining communication, logistics, and medical evacuation for troops in Siachen.
- Demonstrates exceptional human endurance, flying skills, and technical proficiency in harsh conditions.
