Aspi Kekobad Bhagwagar

Biography

Squadron Leader Aspi Kekobad Bhagwagar was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 30 November 1956 in the flying stream, graduating as a fighter pilot with the 70th Pilots' Course. After completing his training, he served with various flying squadrons at different Air Force bases. He was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant on 30 November 1961, and in 1964 earned the distinction of becoming a flying instructor, entrusted with training new pilots in combat operations. By 1965, with about eight years of service behind him, he had evolved into a professionally competent fighter pilot with expertise across a range of air operations. In 1965 Squadron Leader Bhagwagar was serving with 45 Squadron, the "Flying Daggers," which operated the British-built De Havilland Vampire fighter-bomber. As war clouds gathered, the squadron moved from Pune to Pathankot. On 1 September 1965, Pakistan launched a full-scale armoured attack in the Akhnoor area, sending some 70 tanks and two infantry brigades across the Akhnoor bridge to sever the Indian Army's lifeline to Rajauri, Jhangar, Naushera and Poonch. In response to an urgent call for air support, the Vampires of 45 Squadron were tasked to carry out offensive strikes against the advancing enemy armour. Squadron Leader Bhagwagar was detailed to lead the second mission, flying alongside Flt Lt Bharadwaj, Flt Lt V M Joshi and Flt Lt W S Sondhi. As they went in to attack the enemy columns, they were intercepted by technologically superior, sidewinder-armed PAF Sabre jets. Undeterred, Bhagwagar and his comrades pressed home their attack and engaged the Sabres with courage and professional skill of a very high order. In the fierce air combat three Vampires were lost, including his own. He laid down his life in the service of the nation.