75 Years of the No. 5 Squadron of the IAF

On November 24, 2023, celebrations unfolded at Ambala Air Base to mark the 75th anniversary of the No. 5 Squadron of the Indian Air Force (IAF), also known as the Tuskers. 

Originally formed in November 1948 in Kanpur as part of the erstwhile Royal Indian Air Force, No. 5 Squadron operated with B-24 Liberator propeller-driven heavy bombers acquired from a fleet of damaged British aircraft. Under the command of Wing Commander JRS "Danny" Dantra, the squadron has a distinguished history, including overseas service and participation in wars.

Initially equipped with five B-24 Liberators, the squadron expanded its fleet to 16 as it assumed the role of a heavy bomber squadron, becoming the first unit in the IAF to undertake such a responsibility.

In 1957, No. 5 Squadron transitioned to B(I)58 Canberra aircraft, and in 1961, it played a crucial role in the first overseas deployment of the IAF, supporting the United Nations peacekeeping force in Congo. Wing Commander Anthony Suares led the squadron in offensive tasks against Katangan rebels during this deployment.

During the 1965 conflict with Pakistan, the squadron conducted operations, including raids on Sargodha and Peshawar. The unit, under the command of Wing Commander J S Sisodia, switched to Sepecat Jaguar aircraft in 1981, focusing on deep strike missions and photo reconnaissance.

In 1988, the squadron assisted the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka. The President's Colours were awarded to the squadron in April 1975 by President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. Stationed in Ambala since 1981, No. 5 Squadron has upheld its motto, 'Shakti Vijayte,' and continues to boast a proud and distinguished record of service.