The Role of Indian Air Force in the 1971 War

In this blog post, we will explore the various ways in which the IAF contributed to India's success in the 1971 Liberation War, highlighting the tactics, strategies, and technologies that enabled the IAF to play such a crucial role.

Opening Strikes

The war began with a surprise attack by Pakistan on Indian air bases on December 3, 1971. However, India had prepared for such an eventuality, and the IAF launched a preemptive strike against Pakistani airfields in Dhaka, Chittagong, and other locations in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

The strike, which began on December 4, was a resounding success, and it destroyed a significant portion of the Pakistani Air Force's (PAF) aircraft on the ground, leaving them unable to mount a counteroffensive. This attack helped India establish air superiority in the early stages of the war.

Close Air Support

With the PAF's ability to challenge the IAF's air dominance severely curtailed, the IAF was free to provide close air support to the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini (Bangladesh Liberation Forces) on the ground. This support proved to be instrumental in several key battles throughout the war.

During the Battle of Longewala, which took place in the deserts of Rajasthan, the IAF's close air support proved to be a game-changer. Indian troops were vastly outnumbered and outgunned by Pakistani tanks, but the IAF's strikes on Pakistani tank columns inflicted heavy losses and helped turn the tide of the battle in India's favor.

Transport and Resupply

The IAF also played a vital role in transporting troops and supplies to the front lines, enabling India to maintain momentum in the face of determined Pakistani resistance. The IAF's helicopters were instrumental in this effort, providing a rapid and efficient means of transporting troops and supplies to remote and inaccessible locations.

One notable example of the IAF's transport capabilities was the daring raid on the Pakistani airfield at Tezgaon, near Dhaka. The IAF launched the operation on December 14, 1971, and used helicopters to transport commandos behind enemy lines, where they destroyed several PAF aircraft.

Psychological Warfare

Finally, the IAF played a crucial role in psychological warfare, striking fear into the hearts of Pakistani troops with its relentless patrolling of the skies. The sight and sound of Indian aircraft overhead were a constant reminder of India's military superiority and helped to demoralize Pakistani troops.

Conclusion

The Indian Air Force's role in the 1971 Liberation War was pivotal to India's success in the conflict. From the opening strikes that established air superiority to the close air support that helped secure key victories, the IAF played a vital role in every aspect of the war. Its transport and resupply capabilities ensured that Indian troops were well-equipped and well-supported, while its psychological warfare tactics helped to undermine Pakistani morale. All in all, the IAF's contribution was instrumental in securing India's victory and enabling the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh.