This Day (April 13th) in History: Operation Meghdoot; Securing the Siachen Glacier

On April 13, 1984, India launched Operation Meghdoot to secure the strategically important Siachen Glacier in the Ladakh region. This bold move came in response to growing Pakistani activity in the area, including allowing foreign expeditions and potentially planning military action.

The Indian Air Force Takes Flight

The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a pivotal role in the operation. Prior to 1984, IAF helicopters, including the Chetak (the first to land on the glacier in 1978), had already been conducting reconnaissance missions. During Meghdoot, IAF transport aircraft like An-12s, An-32s, and IL-76s airlifted troops and supplies to high-altitude airfields. From there, Mi-series, Chetak, and Cheetah helicopters ferried soldiers and equipment to dizzying heights, surpassing the limits set by their manufacturers.

Swift Action, Strategic Advantage

Within a short time, around 300 Indian troops were positioned on key peaks and passes, gaining a crucial tactical advantage by the time Pakistani forces reacted. This swift action solidified India's control over strategically important areas.

A Continuing Legacy of Fortitude

Since 1984, the IAF has provided unwavering support to the Indian Army in maintaining dominance over the Siachen Glacier. Their operations have been a testament to human endurance, flying skill, and technical expertise in extreme conditions.

Expanding Role, Heightened Presence

The IAF's role in the region gradually expanded. Fighter jets like Hunters started operations from Leh airfield in 1984, conducting sorties and simulated strikes over the glacier, boosting Indian troop morale and deterring Pakistani aggression. Later, MiG-23s and MiG-29s joined the mission, and the IAF inducted the Cheetal helicopter in 2009 for improved high-altitude performance.

Modern marvels take flight: A Show of Capability

In a historic feat, the IAF landed a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules, a four-engine transport aircraft, at Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) in 2013, showcasing its ever-evolving capabilities. Today, the IAF utilizes a vast array of aircraft, including Rafale fighters, Chinook and Apache helicopters, and Light Combat Helicopters, to support Operation Meghdoot.

Lifeline in the Sky: IAF Helicopters Keep the Mission Going

Operating in unforgiving terrain, IAF helicopters act as the lifeline for Indian troops on the Siachen Glacier. They perform critical tasks like emergency response, essential logistics support, and casualty evacuation. Every day, the IAF sets new records of human endurance, flying skill, and technical expertise in this harsh environment, ensuring the success of this decades-long mission.

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Published date : 13 Apr 2024 05:36PM