The induction of the iconic English Electric Canberra jet into the Indian Air Force will complete 60 years tomorrow.
The Canberra Jet bomber was first inducted into the IAF in No 5 Squadron (Tuskers) at Agra on September 1, 1957.
"It was the first generation Jet Bomber manufactured in large number through the 1950s. The prototype of Canberra, first flew in May 1949 and in January 1957 the aircraft was selected by the IAF to equip its bomber and strategic reconnaissance fleet," the IAF said.
When political turmoil broke out in Belgian Congo in 1961, the UN had requested India for strike aircraft.
On October 9, 1961, six Canberra aircraft of No 5 squadron had taken off from Agra for Leopoldville, over 6000 km away to join the UN multinational force in the Congo.
"This was the first ever-Indian fighter-bomber contingent to take part in UN operations. The offensive operation in Congo earned the Squadron two Vir Chakras, one Vayu Sena Medal and five Vishisht Seva Medals," the IAF said in a release.
The Canberras took part in all major operations including the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars and 1987 operation Pawan in Sri Lanka.
"The Canberra last saw action in the Kargil war in 1999 where it flew recce missions, during one of the missions one aircraft's engine was hit by a missile. The sturdy Canberra could survive the enemy's missile attack and landed safely with all vital information," the IAF said.
After 50 years of glorious service to the Nation, the IAF bid adieu to its legendary old war horse on May 11, 2007 at air force station, Agra.
Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content
