A pivotal chapter in the Bangladesh Liberation War

The Operation Kilo Flight, conducted during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, stands as a pivotal chapter in the history of the conflict. This strategic and daring aerial operation, led by the Mukti Bahini combat aviation formation, played a crucial role in shifting the balance of power in favor of the Bengali forces.

The formation, comprising one DHC-3 Otter plane and one Alouette III helicopter, showcased the resilience and determination of nine Bengali pilots alongside 58 ex-PAF personnel. Under the command of Group Captain A. K. Khandker, this unit embarked on a journey of rigorous training, preparing to launch hit-and-run attacks on Pakistani targets. The aircraft, supplied by Indian authorities, became the backbone of the nascent Bangladesh Air Force after the war.

The Genesis of the Bangladesh Air Force

In the early months of 1971, as the intensity of the Liberation War grew, the Pakistanis faced increasing challenges. Bengali officers and aircrew members, disillusioned with the oppressive regime, joined the Liberation War. Even members of the Pakistan Intelligence Agency (PIA) switched allegiances. At this critical juncture, Group Captain A. K. Khandakar, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Liberation War, emphasised the necessity of forming the Bangladesh Air Force.

Discussions with Indian officials in May paved the way for the formation of the Air Force. However, concrete decisions remained elusive. Indian authorities proposed that Bengali officers join Indian squadrons actively participating in the war. A. K. Khandakar, foreseeing the need for an independent air force, rejected this proposal. His vision centred around the establishment of an airfield for aircraft operations and training.

In August, when Air Marshal P.C. Lal, Chief of the Indian Air Force, visited Calcutta, a similar proposal was made but met with uncertainty. The issue of Bengali fighter pilots engaging in air combat with Indian authorities lingered within the Indian leadership.

Finally, in September, A. K. Khandakar received the news that the Indians had agreed to the formation of the Bangladesh Air Force. India handed over one Otter aircraft, one Alouette helicopter, and one DC-3 Dakota aircraft. Though primarily transport aircraft, considerable effort was invested in preparing them for war. Additionally, an airfield in Dimapur, Nagaland, surrounded by challenging terrain, was designated for airborne training.

Formation and Training

As the formation of the Bangladesh Air Force took shape, the aircraft were strategically engaged in various sectors of the war to conceal their origin. Those yet to see the battlefield were assembled in Dimapur. Notably, the resilient airmen included Squadron Leader Sultan Mahmud Bir Uttam, Flight Lieutenant Shamsul Alam Bir Uttam, and other courageous individuals who played pivotal roles in the Liberation War.

September 28, 1971, marked the commencement of the victory march of the Bangladesh Air Force. Group Captain A. K. Khandakar assigned responsibilities within the Air Force, appointing Squadron Leader Sultan Mahmud as the deputy leader. Intensive training sessions, disregarding adversities, continued day and night, emphasizing nighttime warfare due to the known weaknesses of the Pakistani Air Force during such operations.

The training concluded in mid-November, paving the way for the first phase of aerial attacks. The plan targeted the Eastern Refinery in Patenga and the oil depot in Narayanganj. Squadron Leader Sultan Mahmud and his co-pilots would handle the helicopter assault on Narayanganj, while Flight Lieutenant Shamsul Alam and his team would target the Eastern Refinery using Otter aircraft.

Execution of Operation Kilo Flight

The historic Operation Kilo Flight, named after the first English letter 'K' in Group Captain Khandakar's name, was set for November 28. Anticipation filled the air, but the mission was mysteriously canceled. The situation changed abruptly on December 3, following Pakistani air raids on India. Within hours, a message arrived that Operation Kilo Flight would be executed on the same night.

Squadron Leader Sultan Mahmud, along with his team, prepared for the operation on the evening of December 3. Departing from Tejgaon Airport in Dhaka after dark, they navigated through the darkness towards Narayanganj. Although invisible, the helicopters' presence was felt through the unmistakable sound. Turning south after reaching Demra, they targeted the oil depot in Godnail, Narayanganj.

In the darkness of the night, the helicopters made several rounds over the oil depot, launching multiple rockets. The subsequent explosion caught the Pakistanis off guard. Operation Kilo Flight had dealt a significant blow without encountering any resistance, causing extensive damage to the oil depot.

Strategic Brilliance and Legacy

Operation Kilo Flight showcased the strategic brilliance and unwavering courage of the Bengali airmen. The success of the mission was not merely a military triumph but a testament to the visionary leadership of A. K. Khandakar and the indomitable spirit of the Bengali forces. The formation of the Bangladesh Air Force and the triumph of Operation Kilo Flight laid the foundation for an independent and robust air force for the newly formed nation.

The courageous airmen, despite facing technical challenges and operating transport aircraft, demonstrated their adaptability and commitment to the cause. The training in Dimapur, surrounded by challenging terrain, prepared them for the unpredictability of war. The decision to exclude the Dakota aircraft from subsequent airstrikes highlighted the meticulous planning and flexibility of the Bengali forces.

Operation Kilo Flight not only played a crucial role in the immediate context of the 1971 Liberation War but also left a lasting legacy. The airmen who participated in this historic operation became the core of the nascent Bangladesh Air Force after the war. Their training, adaptability, and courage set the standard for future endeavours, shaping the Air Force into a symbol of national pride.

In conclusion, Operation Kilo Flight remains etched in the annals of history as a testament to the valour and strategic acumen of the Bengali forces during the Bangladesh Liberation War. The courage displayed by the airmen and the successful execution of the mission underscored the importance of visionary leadership and meticulous planning in achieving military objectives. Operation Kilo Flight was not just an operation; it was a defining moment that contributed significantly to the birth of an independent Bangladesh.

The writer is the publisher of The Daily Messenger.