44 Squadron of the Indian Air Force

April 24, 2023

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has a rich history of valor and sacrifice in serving the nation, and 44 Squadron is an integral part of this legacy.

Formation and Early Years

44 Squadron was raised on 6th April 1961, equipped with AN-12 aircraft. The personnel of the squadron received their training in Ukraine in the erstwhile USSR in December 1960. The squadron’s first sortie to Chushul was flown on 9th April 1961 in support of the Army.

Role in 1962 and 1971 Operations

During the 1962 operations, 44 Squadron provided logistic support to the Army in the Ladakh sector, landing sorties at Leh and Chushul, airdrop of supplies to various forward posts in the Aksai Chin area, and evacuation of a large number of casualties. In the 1971 operations, 44 Squadron effectively used AN-12s for bombing missions and undertook the first mission to the Changa Manga forest ammunition depot on the very first day. It was awarded the ‘’Battle Honours’ for the 1971 Operations, making it the only non-fighter/bomber squadron in the IAF to receive this distinction.

Induction of IL-76 Aircraft

In March 1985, 44 Squadron brought the IL-76 aircraft into India. It was formally inducted into the IAF on 16th June 1985. The unit crest of 44 Squadron portrays ‘Himalayan Geese,’ reflecting tranquility and supremacy and the global reach of one of the largest transport aircraft in the inventory of the IAF.

Role in IPKF Operations

During the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) operations in Sri Lanka, 44 Squadron played a crucial role in transporting man and material, including T-72 tanks and artillery guns, in the early hours of 30th July 1987, greatly contributing to the airlift effort. The squadron flew extensively during the IPKF operations, which culminated in March 1990.

Ongoing Operations

In recent years, 44 Squadron has continued to serve the nation with distinction. During the ongoing operations in Eastern Ladakh, it airlifted more than 2,000 troops to the Ladakh sector besides all kinds of equipment. After the induction of the IL-76 aircraft in 1985, the squadron carried out practice landings at Thoise in October 1985 and in early 1986, inducted tanks and artillery guns into the Ladakh region.

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