The Indian Air Force commemorated its decisive response to Pakistan’s 1971 pre-emptive strikes, which led to a 14-day war and the birth of Bangladesh. IAF’s precise counter-attacks crippled enemy airfields, blunting their initial move. This victory, celebrated as Vijay Diwas, contrasts with current strained India-Bangladesh ties, while Pakistan-Bangladesh relations have improved. India-Pak war 1971 (Image courtesy: @IAF-MCC) NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday recalled its response to Pakistan’s pre-emptive air strikes of December 3, 1971 — attacks that triggered a 14-day war ending in a decisive Indian victory and the creation of Bangladesh.”Following Pakistan’s pre-emptive strike on 03 Dec 1971, the IAF responded with precision and fury,” the IAF posted on X.“Through the night, Canberra crews flew 23 deep-strike missions, hitting enemy airfields at Murid, Mianwali, Sargodha, Chander, Risalewala, Shorkot and Masrur (Karachi). Runways were cratered, installations shattered, and the adversary’s early move was blunted within hours,” it said.The subsequent air–land operations also began with what the post described as a “thunderous reminder” of the IAF’s reach.“AN-12s dropped forty-eight 500-lb bombs over Changa Manga, sparking a massive fire in the enemy’s supply camp,” it added.On December 16, 1971, Pakistani forces commanded by Lieutenant General AAK Niazi surrendered to the Indian Army’s Lieutenant General JS Aurora — a capitulation involving 93,000 troops, the largest surrender since World War II.The day is celebrated as “Vijay Diwas” (Victory Day) in both India and Bangladesh.However, relations between them have grown strained following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister in August 2024. Hasina has been staying in Delhi since her removal.In contrast, ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh — which were one country until 1971 — have improved significantly under the caretaker administration of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIsraeli Firm IWI Backs ‘Make-In-India’, In Talks To Bring ARBEL Rifle System To IndiaNavy Chief Confirms India’S Third Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine Soon“Both ‘Rs Must Remember Responsibility”: Bjp Slams Rahul, Renuka Over ‘Dog’ RemarksNo More Disruptions: Lok Sabha to Debate Electoral Reforms Next Week’Imran Khan’s Health Stable, But Facing Mental Torture’, Claims Sister After Jail VisitChina’s Condom Tax Shocks the World Amid Birthrate Drop as India Surges Ahead in Population RankingsPakistan Sparks Controversy With Expired Relief Claims As India Rejects Airspace Allegation StronglyCentre Signals Willingness to Discuss SIR, Asks Opposition Not to Set TimelinePakistan’s Adiala Jail To Open Gate To Imran Khan’s Sister After PTI Fury Forces Sharif, MunirRussia Confirms Su-57 Fighter Jets, S-400 Deal On Agenda Ahead of Vladimir Putin’s India Visit123Photostories6 behaviours that tell the universe you’re ready for something biggerWHO issues guidelines on GLP-1 therapies for obesity treatment: Understanding the impact, safety considerations, and who can benefitHarvard doctor shares 10 best foods that help relieve constipation instantlyMega-price masterpieces: 7 exorbitantly priced paintings sold worldwideLord Ganesha as a devoted son: 5 things every child should know6 common foods that may increase uric acid levels, the right food to eat, and easy cooking tipsHow to watch the December full moon like a young astronomerNot Helen, not Bindu, not Zeenat: Meet India’s first item dancer who starred in 700 films and even performed at Buckingham Palace5 shocking signs the ‘Universe’ is trying to send you a message (Don’t Ignore number 3!)Vedic Shloka Based On Your Date of Birth123Hot PicksParliament Winter SessionCyclone DitwahWorld NewsGold rate todaySilver rate todayPublic Holidays NovemberBank Holidays NovemberTop TrendingNBA Trade RumorsPaige BueckersShedeur SandersDrake MayeOdell Beckham JrStephen CurryJaxson DartGiannis AntetokounmpoCharlie Kirk ControversyYordan Alvarez Wife
NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday recalled its response to Pakistan’s pre-emptive air strikes of December 3, 1971 — attacks that triggered a 14-day war ending in a decisive Indian victory and the creation of Bangladesh.“Following Pakistan’s pre-emptive strike on 03 Dec 1971, the IAF responded with precision and fury,” the IAF posted on X.“Through the night, Canberra crews flew 23 deep-strike missions, hitting enemy airfields at Murid, Mianwali, Sargodha, Chander, Risalewala, Shorkot and Masrur (Karachi). Runways were cratered, installations shattered, and the adversary’s early move was blunted within hours,” it said.The subsequent air–land operations also began with what the post described as a “thunderous reminder” of the IAF’s reach.“AN-12s dropped forty-eight 500-lb bombs over Changa Manga, sparking a massive fire in the enemy’s supply camp,” it added.On December 16, 1971, Pakistani forces commanded by Lieutenant General AAK Niazi surrendered to the Indian Army’s Lieutenant General JS Aurora — a capitulation involving 93,000 troops, the largest surrender since World War II.The day is celebrated as “Vijay Diwas” (Victory Day) in both India and Bangladesh.However, relations between them have grown strained following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina as prime minister in August 2024. Hasina has been staying in Delhi since her removal.In contrast, ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh — which were one country until 1971 — have improved significantly under the caretaker administration of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus in Dhaka.
