Bharat Rakshak:Indian Air Force

AOC-in-C WAC

The AOC-in-C of Western Air Command, Air Marshal Pranab Barbora has unobtrusively settled inside Gp Capt Chafekars aircraft before take off.

Break at Thoise

The flying crew, ground crew, with AOC-in-C and AOC and their Commanding Officer at Thoise. Both aircraft landed at Thoise, refuelled, and then headed back to Chandigarh. The crew of No.48 Squadron included lady officers as well!

Flight Deck

View of Chandigarh Runway from flight deck of the An-32 on that eventful day.

GOC-in-C, AOC-in-C, GOC XIV Corps

The AOC-in-C Western Air Command, Pranab Barbora flanked by Lt Gen PC Bhardwaj (left) GOC-in-C Northern Command and Lt Gen Vijay Ahluwalia, GOC, XIV Corps (Leh).

Landing run with dust trails

Landing run with much dust. Note the mountain features in background and compare it with those during take off. Shows that take off is in Southerly direction, whereas landing is in Northerly heading.

Parking the aircraft

Chafekar taxis to parking stand. The sky and cloud cover represents typical weather over DBO. Descent has to be made thru clouds demanding a very thorough knowledge of geography of the area, and knowing where the aircraft is in relation to mountain peaks,

Sunrise over the Himalayas

Magnificient sunrise lighting up the eastern faces of mountain peaks while the An-32 head Northward for DBO.

Take off from DBO

Chafekar opens full power on brakes in preparation for take off from DBO. The No 1 Distance To Go marker in the foreground is painted on a Jerry Can.

Token of appreciation for the army

AOC-in-C handing over sweets to the Army unit in appreciation of their support. Gp Capt Chafekar is on the right side of C-in-C

Touchdown at DBO!

Chafekar is on Ground at DBO, and SKR Nair is flying overhead. Note smoke trail from Nairs AN-32.

VIP Passengers

The GOC-in-C Northern Command had accepted an invitation of AOC-in-C Western Air Command for a ride back from DBO. Both of them are seen in the aircraft during the return flight.