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As the MiG-21 began its 70-nautical-mile return, a rocket struck its canopy, shattering the glass and leaving the pilot severely injured mid-flight. Here’s what followed
The Indian forces destroyed four Pakistani fighter jets, including three F-104 Star Fighters and one MiG-19. (Representative/PTI)
In a remarkable feat during the Indo-Pakistani war of 1971, the Indian Air Force’s MiG-21 fighter jets achieved a significant victory by destroying four Pakistani Air Force fighter jets on Pakistani soil. Following this triumph, the Indian MiG-21 embarked on its return journey to its base, covering a distance of approximately 70 nautical miles. However, disaster struck soon when a rocket hit the canopy of the MiG-21, shattering the cockpit glass and severely injuring the pilot.
The incident took place in December 1971, at the height of the Indo-Pak war. That day, Wing Commander Vishwanath Balakrishna Swardekar of the Indian Air Force undertook an escort and sweep mission in his MiG-21 supersonic fighter jet, accompanied by another MiG-21 from his squadron. The brave air warriors were tasked with executing the operation deep inside Pakistani territory.
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The squadron was divided into two teams for this mission: one team was designated to penetrate deep into Pakistani territory, about 130 km inside, to destroy enemy hideouts, while the second team provided protection and escort to the attacking jets.
During the operation, the Indian forces managed to inflict significant damage on enemy bases and destroyed four Pakistani fighter jets, including three F-104 Star Fighters and one MiG-19.
As the Indian MiG-21 jets began their return to base, they faced heavy enemy fire and rocket attacks from the ground. One of the rockets hit the canopy of a MiG-21, causing severe damage and injuring the pilot.
Despite the dire situation and the nearly impossible task of flying the aircraft to its base without a canopy, Wing Commander Swardekar took charge. He escorted the damaged MiG-21, ensuring that the enemy could not approach it. He continuously encouraged and motivated the injured pilot, providing instructions to maintain his morale. Thanks to his leadership, the MiG-21 successfully travelled the remaining 70 nautical miles and landed safely at the base.
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