Mokokchung, 1 November (MTNews): In order to commemorate the Raising Day of the Bangladesh Air Force (BAF), a delegation of 20 officers and personnel of BAF, led by Group Captain Tanvir Marzan, visited Dimapur on 31 October 2023. This visit was part of its ongoing efforts to keep the spirit of the Liberation War alive amongst the personnel of the Bangladesh Forces.
During their visit, they interacted with officers and personnel of the IAF, including those belonging to the Dornier and MI 17-V5 squadrons, which have a historical connection with Kilo Flight.
Bangladesh Air Force and its historical ties with Dimapur
The BAF was formed on 28 September 1971, in Dimapur, with the active assistance of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
“It was on this day that three pilots, Squadron Leader Sultan Ahmed and Flight Lieutenant Badrul Alam who had defected from Pakistan Air Force and a civilian pilot, Captain Shahabuddin Ahmed, commenced their training by the Indian Air Force in Kilo Flight at Dimapur,” a PIB report said. This was deemed to be the first Bangladesh Air Force Unit.
After the birth of Bangladesh on December 16, 1971, the aircraft of Kilo Flight, which were riddled with bullets but still fly-worthy, were handed over to Bangladesh by India in Dhaka.
“Bangladesh Air Force has always shown keen interest in visiting important locations that were places of relevance during the 1971 Liberation War. The visit reflects the deep ties and bonhomie between the Air Forces of the two countries and acknowledges the role of IAF in the Liberation of Bangladesh,” the report added.