Kargil: Mirage 2000, MiG-21s deployed under Op Safed Sagar turned war in India's favour

In the remote reaches of Kargil, the Indian Air Force’s Operation Safed Sagar proved pivotal in shifting the course of the 1999 conflict against Pakistani forces. According to a retired IAF officer present at the Dras memorial commemorating the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the deployment of Mirage 2000 jets equipped with precision laser-guided bombs, alongside MiG-21 and MiG-27 squadrons, delivered a “decisive and crushing blow” to the enemy. These strikes forced the intruders to withdraw from strategic mountainous positions, marking a turning point in the war. The operation, conducted under the broader framework of Operation Vijay, saw the IAF play a critical role in supporting ground troops and securing tactical advantages. Operation Safed Sagar unfolded in the challenging terrain of Kargil, where Indian forces faced formidable conditions. The IAF’s involvement included delivering high-precision ordnance to enemy positions, often at extreme altitudes. A senior IAF spokesperson, Wing Commander Jaideep Singh, noted that these attacks were among the highest-altitude aerial engagements globally at the time. The Mirage 2000 jets, armed with laser-guided munitions, were instrumental in this effort. Meanwhile, MiG-21 and MiG-27 fighters supported the mission, while helicopters facilitated casualty evacuation and logistical supply operations. Transport aircraft also played a vital role in maintaining the flow of supplies to forward airbases. The Kargil War Memorial at Dras serves as a somber tribute to the sacrifices made during the conflict. Over 500 brave individuals lost their lives in the line of duty. At the heart of the memorial stands an obelisk inscribed with “Op Vijay,” symbolizing the three-month-long battle waged by the Indian Army in treacherous conditions. The IAF’s contributions, particularly through Operation Safed Sagar, were equally significant. The Golden Arrows squadron, based at Killi Bhisiana Airbase, was central to these efforts. A vintage MiG-21 on display at the memorial belonged to Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja, who commanded the unit and was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra for his valor. His aircraft, now preserved at the site, represents the IAF’s commitment and courage during the war. Retired IAF officer Group Captain Sanjay Misra, a participant in Operation Safed Sagar, recounted his experiences during the commemorative event. He described the challenges of flying from the base near Tololing Hill, where the battlefield’s harshness became evident. From the vantage point of the hill, Misra reflected on the intense fighting that took place, highlighting the strategic importance of the terrain. His personal connection to the aircraft displayed at the memorial adds a human dimension to the historical narrative. The plane, with tail number C 1538, was the very aircraft he flew for nearly 15 years, underscoring the deep ties between personnel and their equipment. The upcoming webseries Operation Safed Sagar: The Untold Story of the Kargil War aims to bring these stories to a wider audience. It will focus on the Golden Arrows squadron and highlight Squadron Leader Ahuja’s actions during the conflict. Ahuja’s aircraft was struck by a shoulder-fired Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) while he attempted to locate a downed pilot. Despite the risk posed by the presence of Pakistani Stinger missiles, man-portable air-defense systems, the IAF continued its missions with unwavering resolve. The precision of the Mirage 2000 jets, enhanced by Israeli technology, allowed Indian pilots to engage targets effectively even in hostile skies. The collaboration between India and Israel during the Kargil War extended beyond military hardware. In November 1996, Rafael, an Israeli defense company, entered into an agreement with India to equip Mirage 2000 jets with the Litening targeting pod. This advanced system enabled Indian pilots to identify and strike targets with unprecedented accuracy. The technological upgrade significantly bolstered the IAF’s capabilities during the conflict, contributing to the success of Operation Safed Sagar. This partnership exemplifies the complex interplay of international arms deals and their impact on regional conflicts.