Dhaka: Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) today marked its 54th anniversary, celebrated as 'Air Force Day', with an array of programmes.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the celebrations included a documentary show, special prayers, and a communal feast at various messes across all air force bases and units, including the Bangladesh Air Force Contingents (BANAIR) deployed under UN Peacekeeping Missions, as reported by the Inter Services Public Relation Directorate (ISPR).
A significant highlight of the day was the combined feast at Bangladesh Air Force Base Bashar in Tejgaon, Dhaka, attended by all BAF members in the Dhaka area along with former Chiefs of Air Staff. The celebration also paid homage to the historic journey of BAF, which commenced during the Great Liberation War in 1971. The freedom fighters of the Air Force played a crucial role alongside people from all walks of life during the war.
Air Vice Marshal Bir Abdul Karim Khandker, Bir Uttam, (retd) served as Deputy Chief of Staff during the Liberation War, during which BAF members undertook vital tasks, including roles as Sector Commanders. Additionally, Air Vice-Marshal Sultan Mahmud, Bir Uttam, (retd) served as Officer Commanding of the 'Kilo Flight'.
The formation of an independent Air Force was deemed necessary during the Liberation War to gain control over the challenging situation, as highlighted by ISPR. BAF's journey began on September 28, 1971, with the inception of 'Kilo Flight', which included one Otter aircraft, one Dakota aircraft, and one Alouette helicopter. This unit was comprised of 57 members, including Bengali pilots, technical airmen, and civil aviators.
The 'Kilo Flight' conducted over fifty successful air attacks during the Liberation War, significantly contributing to the ultimate victory.