The Blue Skies Podcast
PR Ganapathy
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The Blue Skies Podcast is an unofficial podcast on the men, women, machines and operations of the Indian Air Force in particular and Indian military aviation in general. Every week, we'll put you in the cockpit with an experienced military aviator.
Available episodes
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Oldest first
Dec 3, 2022
SP Tyagi Part 4: Inducting the Jaguar into IAF Service
In the last and final part of our interview with Air Chief Marshal SP Tyagi, we discuss his experiences inducting the Jaguar into IAF service. We also discuss his role in the repatriation of Flt. Lt. Nachiketa, during the Kargil War.
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Nov 26, 2022
SP Tyagi Part 3: Jaguar Conversion
In Part 3 of our interview with Air Chief Marshal SP Tyagi, we discuss his experiences training with the Royal Air Force on the Jaguar Aircraft. He was among the first batch of 12 pilots to be trained on that deep penetration strike aircraft. Learn how he was taught to drop "bombs in a bucket" from the RAF.
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Nov 19, 2022
SP Tyagi Part 2: Becoming a Top Gun and 1971 War
In Part 2 of this 3-part interview with former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal SP Tyagi, we discuss the inter-war years, when he become a Pilot Attack Instructor, Instructor in the PAI school, participated in the 1971 War for the Liberation of Bangladesh, and became a Fighter Combat Leader.
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Nov 12, 2022
SP Tyagi Part 1: From Joining to the '65 War
Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal SP Tyagi, PVSM, AVSM, VM, joins us for a series of interviews on his career and experiences. In Part 1, we speak about his initial journey into the Air Force, and experiences flying Hunters in a frontline squadron during the 65 War with Pakistan.
Air Chief Marshal Tyagi's profile is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/8130
and his bio is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/personnel/chiefs/shashi-tyagi/
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Nov 5, 2022
Samir Borade: Maintaining and upgrading the MiG-29 Fulcrum
This week's guest, AVM Samir Borade, VSM, speaks about the technical branch in the Indian Air Force. We learn about first, second, third and fourth line servicing, the MiG-29 Upgrade program, technical branch and flight safety, and the challenges of indigenization.
AVM Borade's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/18761
Read about the MiG-29 UPG program here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Galleries/Aircraft/Current/Fighters/MiG29UPG/
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Oct 29, 2022
What is courage? Harish Masand on AB Devayya
This episode is a narration of an article written by Air Mshl Harish Masand, himself a veteran of the 1971 War where he shot down a Sabre, on what might have transpired in AB Devayya's final sortie.
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Oct 23, 2022
AB Devayya - Unraveling the mystery
In this episode, aviation historian PVS Jagan Mohan joins me and we make an attempt to unravel the mystery behind the death of Sqn. Ldr. AB Devayya, MVC (Posthumous) on 7th Sept, 1965. The episodes includes interviews with officers who served with him, including on that fateful day.
Sqn. Ldr. Devayya's profile is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/4810
The India Today article Jagan references is here: https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/defence/story/19880415-squadron-leader-ayamada-bopayya-devayya-honoured-23-years-after-his-death-797132-1988-04-14
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Oct 15, 2022
SS Krishnamurthy: Witnessing the Dacca surrender and other flying experiences
This week we speak to Wg. Cdr. SS Krishnamurthy, who is the young flying officer peering over Maj. Gen. JFR Jacob's shoulder in that iconic photograph of the surrender of Pakistan's Army in Dacca in December 1971. He talks of that experience, flying helicopters in Car Nicobar and the Antarctic, and more.
Wg. Cdr. Krishnamurthy's profile is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/11660
A link to his book is here: https://www.amazon.in/dp/1648288391/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_DC5WG0V97EXE394966E4
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Oct 8, 2022
Anil Khosla: Doklam, Balakot and the Future of Air War
In this episode, we speak to Air Mshl Anil Khosla, who recently retired as Vice Chief of Air Staff. Besides his experiences as a young officer, we focus on the role he played in the Doklam stand-off (when he was C-in-C Eastern Air Command) and the strike at Balakot (when he was Vice Chief). We also discuss the pros and cons of indigenous vs imported weapons platforms, the future of air war, and the Air Force's talent strategy, among other things.
Air Mshl Khosla's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/15871
His blog can be found here: https://55nda.com/blogs/anil-khosla/
00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:00 Initial journey into IAF
00:13:14 Doklam incident
00:16:01 How to deal with China
00:19:09 Balakot
00:28:46 Maintain a tech edge
00:43:46 Future of air war
00:53:30 Finding talent for the IAF
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Oct 1, 2022
BS Siwach: VIP Helicopter operations and Op Khukri in Africa
In this weekend's episode, we speak to Air Cmde BS Siwach about a daring rescue from Mt. Nunkun, flying helicopters in the North East, VIP flying and most importantly, his role as the Air Force commander of the UN forces in Sierra Leone during Op Khukri, the daring rescue of our trapped soldiers.
Air Cmde Siwach's profile is here.
You can read more about Op Khukri here.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:16 Initial journey into IAF
00:08:55 Flying in the North East
00:14:38 Rescue on Mt. Nunkun
00:22:18 Safety consideration in Helo ops
00:24:11 Humanitarian relief operations
00:29:35 VIP Flying
00:39:56 Thoughts on Gen Rawat's accident
00:47:24 Op Khukri
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Sep 24, 2022
Anchit Gupta: How we got here: the IAF organization at independence
Guest host and aviation historian Anchit Gupta takes us through the organization of the Air Forces in India prior to Independence.
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Sep 17, 2022
Anil Kumar Ghosh: Understanding the SA-2 Dvina
In this interview we change gears to understand now a Surface to Air Missile (SAM) or Surface to Air Guided Weapon (SAGW) works. In an interview with a past guest of the program, Gp. Capt. Anil Kumar ("Toots") Ghosh, who commanded an SA-2 Dvina unit, we understand the intricacies of ground based detection of hostile targets and defence against them.
Learn more about the SA-2 Dvina here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S-75_Dvina
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Sep 10, 2022
BD Jayal Part 2: Lessons from Command
In Part 2 of the 2-part interview with Air Marshal BD Jayal, we discuss his leading the Jaguar Project Team (JPT) in the UK, how the IAF anticipates equipment requirements and plans for it, and what should be done about the threat environment in the Indian sub-continent.
Air Marshal Jayal's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/4972
A compilation of his writings in the Times of India are here,
and in the Telegraph are here.
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Sep 3, 2022
BD Jayal Part 1: From a cadet to one of India's first MiG-21 pilots
This week's interview is Part 1 of a 2-part interview with a legend of the IAF, Air Marshal BD Jayal. From a Tiger Moth to Mirage 2000 and everything in between, Air Marshal Jayal has flown it, 77 types and 4,200 hours, in fact. In Part 1 we discuss his early experiences flying Toofanis and Mysteres, converting to the MiG-21 in the Soviet Union as part of the first batch of Indians to train there, and becoming a test pilot.
Part 2, covering Jaguar induction, Defence procurement, the Indian threat environment, etc., will come out next week.
Air Marshal Jayal's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/4972
A compilation of his writings in the Times of India are here,
and in the Telegraph are here.
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Aug 27, 2022
Jai Singh Gahlawat: 1971 Vir Chakra Awardee, A1 instructor
This week's interview features Wg. Cdr. Jai Singh Gahlawat, who saw action flying Hunters during the 1971 War for the Liberation Bangladesh, for which he was awarded a Vir Chakra. In great detail, he takes us with him as he mounts attacks deep in West Pakistan.
Wg. Cdr. Gahlawat is also one of the Air Force's few A1 instructors, and we discuss those experiences too.
Wg. Cdr. Gahlawat's profile is here. http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/11280. His Vir Chakra citation is a really thrilling read.
00:00:00 Guest introduction, journey into IAF
00:13:13 Commencement of hostilities
00:15:50 First mission: Strike Sakesar Radar
00:36:52 Destroying bridge in Kathua
00:43:38 Being attacked by 6 Mirages
00:48:00 Destroying tanks in Chhamb
00:53:10 Nearly shot down own Hunters
00:56:06 Becoming an A-1 Instructor
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Aug 20, 2022
Sunil Palkar: Navigating to the Tangail Paradrop
This episode features an interview with Gp. Capt. Sunil Palkar (Retd.), who was a Navigator on AN-12 aircraft during the 1971 war with Bangladesh and was in the lead aircraft for the famous Tangail paradrop. In addition to that mission, we discuss navigation in the AN-12, flying Caribous in the North East, Electronic Intelligence gathering, flying VIPs in the Boeing 737, etc.
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Aug 13, 2022
PVS Jagan Mohan: Chronicler of the IAF
This week's episode features PVS Jagan Mohan, co-author of "The India-Pakistan Air War of 1965", "Eagles over Bangladesh" and "The Westland Wapiti in the Indian Air Force" and others. He is also a pillar of the IAF section of the Bharat Rakshak website, and runs https://www.warbirdsofindia.com/ which documents locations of former military aircraft.
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Aug 6, 2022
Namrita Chandi: Pioneering military aviatrix
In this episode, we speak to Wg. Cdr. Namrita Chandi, who was among the first few batches of lady officers commissioned into the flying branch. Over 15 years in uniform, she flew over 2,000 hours in Chetaks and Cheetahs from the heights of Siachen to the deserts of Rajasthan.
Wg. Cdr. Chandi's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/24109
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Jul 31, 2022
Anil Kumar Ghosh - Experiences with IPKF in Sri Lanka
On 29 July, 1987, India first inducted troops into Sri Lanka as part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF). Almost exactly 35 years later, we interview Gp. Capt Anil Kumar "Toots" Ghosh, who served two tenures as Base Commander as part of the IPKF.
Gp. Capt. Ghosh's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/6525
A gallery of photos on the IPKF is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/ARMY/Galleries/Wars/SriLanka/
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Jul 23, 2022
Sunil Nanodkar - Part 2: Jaguars in Cope Thunder, Alaska
In this episode we return to a former guest, AVM Sunil Nanodkar, and do a deep dive into the first time the IAF participated in an exercise with friendly forces in the US, Cope Thunder, in Alaska. We understand what is meant by trail planning, the challenges of the long ferry, the missions they flew before and during the exercise, and the lessons learnt.
AVM Nanodkar's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16555
More on Cope Thunder is here: https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/cope-thunder.htm
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Jul 16, 2022
HN Bhagwat: Pioneer of low altitude para jumping
In this episode, we interview Air Marshal HN Bhagwat, PVSM, AVSM, VM (Retd)., a pioneer of low-altitude Para Jumping in the Indian Air Force. We speak about his initial career as an ATC Officer, Para jumping, the Akash Ganga skydiving team, and commanding the Garud Regimental Training Center.
Air Mshl Bhagwat's profile may be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16423
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Jul 9, 2022
CD Upadhyay - Mi-8s in Sri Lanka, Test Flying the ALH Dhruv
This week we interview star helicopter test pilot, Wg Cdr. CD Upadhyay, Vr. C.
Wg. Cdr. Upadhyay saw action flying Mi-8s in support of the army during Op Pawan in Sri Lanka, for which he was awarded a Vr. C.
He was also involved with extensively flight testing the ALH Dhruv, including participating in the first flight.
His profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/11336
00:00:00 - 00:14:05 Introduction, initial journey into IAF
00:14:05 - 00:18:56 Becoming a test pilot
00:18:56 - 00:30:13 Return to ASTE, test flying
00:30:13 - 00:36:20 IPKF in Sri Lanka
00:36:20 - 00:51:45 Involvement with ALH program
00:51:45 - 01:10:36 First flight of Dhruv
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Jul 1, 2022
K Nachiketa: Flame out and ejection in Kargil
Welcome to Season 2! We begin this season with a bang, interviewing Gp. Capt. K. Nachiketa, who had a flame out in his MiG-27 while conducting a rocket attack on Pakistani positions during the Kargil conflict. He ejected from his aircraft and unfortunately landed in enemy territory, where he was taken prisoner.
Gp. Capt. Nachiketa's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/22930
An account of his experiences is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/1064-nachiketa.html#gsc.tab=0
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Apr 23, 2022
Kedar Karmakar, Angad Singh and Sanjay Simha: Aviation photography
In this episode, we interview three well-known aviation photographers on their experiences and some secrets of capturing good military aviation photographs.
* Kedar Karmakar, based in California
* Angad Singh, based in Delhi NCR
* Sanjay Simha, based in Bangalore
The youtube version of their interview contains some of their most spectacular photographs, and can be viewed here.
This is the last episode in Season 1, we will be taking a break for a few months. In the meantime, listen to past episodes, and test your knowledge with a quiz!
www.blueskiespodcast.com/quiz
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Apr 16, 2022
KS Sree Kumar: History of the early days of the IAF
In this episode, we interview amateur IAF historian and author KS Sreekumar Nair. "Sree" wrote "The Forgotten Few: The Indian Air Force's Contribution in the Second World War" which was published by Harper Collins in 2019, and has just recently released "December In Dacca: The Indian Armed Forces and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War".
We talk about the history of military aviation in the Indian sub-continent, Indians flying in the RFC and RAF, the first officers and men selected for the Indian Air Force, and the fledgling IAF's stellar contributions during World War 2, especially in the India-Burma-China theatre.
You can buy his books here:
Forgotten Few: https://www.amazon.in/gp/product/B07TM9L9QS/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1
December in Dacca: https://www.amazon.in/gp/product/B09ML2WH68/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0
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Apr 9, 2022
Wives of military aviators: Understanding the home front
This episode provides a very different perspective on military aviation: the home front. In a conversation with 3 wives of military aviators, we understand how they deal with frequent moves, children's education, sacrificing their careers, and the ever present danger in their husband's professions.
The interview features
* Mrs. Sharmila Roychowdhury, whose husband, DR Roychowdhury, died in an aircrash in 1997 (http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/14678);
* Mrs. Sheela Jaywant, whose husband Wg Cdr CM Jaywant, was a guest on this program;
* Mrs. Swaroopa Nanodkar, whose husband, AVM Sunil Nanodkar, was a guest on this program.
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Apr 2, 2022
Raghu Nambiar - Part 2: Mirage and LGBs in Kargil
In Part 2 of our interview with Air Mshl Raghu Nambiar, we discuss his legendary exploits with the Mirage 2000, the Litening Targeting Pod and Laser Guided Bombs in Kargil.
View the footage of his LGB drop here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-9bs3HCqfQ
Air Marshal Nambiar's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16378
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Mar 26, 2022
Raghu Nambiar - Part 1: Mirage 2000 and LCA
Another episode you've been waiting for! Air Marshal Raghu Nambiar, an experimental test pilot with many years of operational experience on the Mirage 2000, joins us for an in-depth conversation on that exciting aircraft.
He was also closely involved with the prototype develop of the LCA, was one of the first two test pilots who flew the first prototype, and saw it reach operational status during his service - in this interview we cover his experiences with the LCA Tejas too.
In Part 2, which will be released next weekend, we will discuss his experiences using the Mirage 2000 in the Kargil war, where he used precision weapons to hit targets at significant altitude, thereby reversing the course of the war.
Air Marshal Nambiar's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16378
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Mar 19, 2022
BS Singh Deo: A1 helicopter instructor, examiner, test pilot
In this episode, we interview Wg. Cdr. (Retd) BS Singh Deo, VM, a veteran helicopter pilot with the Indian Air Force, Pawan Hans and later Bell Helicopters. He speaks of his experiences as a young Mi-4 pilot supporting the Army in western Rajasthan during the 1971 war, flying the Mi-4, Chetak, Mi-8, Mi-17 and Westland WG-30, becoming a test pilot, becoming an A-1 instructor and examiner, and much more.
Wg. Cdr. Singh Deo's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12189
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Mar 12, 2022
Sanjay Vadgaokar: Hunting Subs in a Kamov
In this week's interview (our 52nd! Thank you!), we return to the sea and the Indian Navy's sub-hunting ASW fleet of Kamov helicopters with Rear Admiral Sanjay Vadgaokar. He describes flying this odd looking aircraft, how detecting and destroying submarines works, and the selection of the Kamov 31 Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Helicopter. He was commissioned into the Navy in 1975, flew over 5,000 hours, and his last aviation related post was ACNS (Aviation).
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Mar 5, 2022
NS Jamwal: Loop, tumble and yaw in a Flanker
This is the episode you've all been waiting for! We interview Air Cmde NS Jamwal, a test pilot who trained on the Su-30K, then converted to the Su-30MKI and commanded the first squadron. He was also the designated demo pilot of that aircraft.
Air Cmde Jamwal's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/17156
A flying demo of the Su-30MKI featuring the Loop, Tumble and Yaw can be seen here: https://youtu.be/xeLkzJ9nk7I
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Feb 26, 2022
RK Sharma: High Altitude operations in a Do-228
This week, we speak to a veteran of the IAF's transport fleet - light, medium and heavy transport aircraft like the Dakota, Dornier-228, HS-748, AN-32 and IL-76, Gp Capt RK Sharma. He was an instructor and examiner on many of these types, and landed the first Dornier 228 at Leh and Thoise, far in excess of the aircraft manufacturer's published limits of performance.
Gp Capt Sharma's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16050
More about the Do-228 can be found here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/aircraft/specs/573-dornier-228.html and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dornier_228
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Feb 19, 2022
LCA Part 8 - Rajiv Kothiyal - test pilot of LCA's first flight
In the final interview of the series on the LCA Tejas, we interview Wg. Cdr. Rajiv Kothiyal, KC, the test pilot who was at the controls at the first flight of the aircraft. Trained at the USAF Test Pilot's school at Edwards Air Force Base, Wg. Cdr. Kothiyal was awarded a Kirti Chakra for the first flight, and the prestigious Ivan C. Kinchloe Award for outstanding professional accomplishment in the conduct of flight testing by the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, SETP.
A full video of his first flight is here: https://youtu.be/U_7HGD61wLQ
Wg. Cdr. Kothiyal's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/15696
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Feb 12, 2022
LCA Part 7 - Jaideep Maolankar - Naval LCA - Part 2/2
Part 2 of the interview on the LCA with Cmde Jaideep Maolankar focuses on the requirements, challenges and journey of the Naval version of the LCA.
View a video of his first deck landing here: https://youtu.be/WgcAQrTvs8g
And the first takeoff here: https://youtu.be/Iw6tLOMZzbI
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Feb 5, 2022
LCA Part 6 - Jaideep Maolankar - test flying the LCA - Part 1/2
Former Guest and Naval Fighter / Test pilot Cmde Jaideep Maolankar joins us for the last few episodes on the LCA. In his usual lucid style, he speaks about his experiences test flying the LCA, how he leveraged his experience of the Limited Upgrade of Sea Harrier (LUSH) program for integrating the Derby missile on the Tejas, and the essence of flying demonstrations, especially the Bahrain flying demo that can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9W23mLABs5o
More about the LCA project can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HAL_Tejas
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Jan 29, 2022
LCA Part 5 - PK Raveendran - Flight Test Engineer for the LCA
Continuing our miniseries on the LCA Tejas, we change gears slightly to interview Wg. Cdr. PK Raveendran, SC, a past guest on the program. Wg. Cdr. Raveendran was the Flight Test Director at the time of the LCA's first flight, and for many years thereafter.
The full video of the LCA first flight, where he was the Flight Test Director who gave the "Clear to Go" command, can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_7HGD61wLQ&t=388s
Wg. Cdr. Raveendran's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12821
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Jan 22, 2022
LCA Part 4 - Ritu Raj Tyagi: Developing lethal ground attack capabilities
In Part 4 of the miniseries on the LCA Tejas, we speak with Gp Capt Ritu Raj Tyagi, a former Jaguar pilot and test pilot who flew more than 650+ test flights on the LCA, the most by any pilot. Given his Jaguar background, he was involved with a significant portion of testing Air to Surface weapons, but also got to fire many Air to Air weapons too, including this breathtaking dual firing at Iron Fist 2013, which he describes in the interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXGV9o8L_sY
Gp Capt Tyagi's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/18571
We apologise in advance for poor audio quality. This was the only way we could get him on record... The alternative was to drop him the miniseries which we were loath to do. However, a transcript is available here: https://blueskiespodcast.com/transcripts
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Jan 15, 2022
LCA Part 3 - Harish Nayani: MFD development, breathtaking demos, weapon delivery
In Part 3 of the miniseries on the LCA Tejas, we speak with Air Cmde Harish Nayani, a past guest on the program. He talks about the first flight of PV-3, developing the MFDs for the Tejas, demonstrating the aircraft at Aero India, and firing the R-73 All Aspect Air to Air Missile.
Air Cmde Nayani's profile can be found here: Air Cmde Nayani's bio can be seen at this link: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/17135
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Jan 8, 2022
LCA Part 2 - Suneet Krishna: from filming first flight to weapons release
In Part 2 of our series of interviews on the LCA Tejas, we speak with Gp Capt Suneet Krishna, a test pilot who was in the rear seat of the chase aircraft and filmed the first flight. He went on to participate extensively in the testing of the LCA, survived a dangerous dual hydraulic failure, performed various trials such as formation flying, carefree maneuvering, firing various weapons such as R-73 Air to Air missile using a Helmet Mounted Display, and firing a Laser Guided Bomb.
Gp Capt Krishna's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/20472
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Jan 1, 2022
LCA Part 1 - Philip Rajkumar: Overview of the program
In Part 1 of a miniseries on the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), christened Tejas, we speak to Air Marshal Philip Rajkumar, PVSM, AVSM, VM, who was closely involved with the development of the aircraft in multiple roles, most importantly as head of the National Flight Test Centre (NFTC) that was dedicated to the flight testing of the aircraft.
Air Mshl Rajkumar co-authored an authoritative book on the project, "Tejas: Radiance in Indian Skies", produced by Desidoc, which can be ordered here or the first few pages downloaded for free.
More about the LCA project can be found here.
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Dec 25, 2021
Philip Rajkumar: A lifetime of test flying
We return to one of our earliest guests, Air Mshl Philip Rajkumar, PVSM, AVSM, VM. His episode on the Sargodha raid during the India-Pak war of 1965 was covered here and remains the most popular Blueskies episode to date.
In this episode, we discuss his test flying career, including training at EPNER, France, test flying early versions of the MiG-21, various evaluation trials he participated in, such as MiG-23, Advanced Jet Trainer, etc.
Our interview continued into his involvement with, and leadership of the Flight Test effort on, the LCA, which will be released next weekend as part of a series on the LCA / Tejas.
Air Mshl Rajkumar's profile can be found here.
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Dec 18, 2021
SC Chafekar: High Altitude operations in an AN-32
We interview AVM (Retd) SC Chafekar, AVSM, SC. He speaks about his initial journey into the Air Force, flying Otters single pilot in the North East, an incident where his AN-32 was hit by a Stinger missile, and how he planned and executed the first-ever landing of an AN-32 in Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), Fukche and Nyoma ALGs in Ladakh. He also speaks about the IAF's HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) operations, induction of the C-17, C-130 and more.
AVM Chafekar's profile is available here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/17013
The video of the C-17 landing in Mechuka is here: https://youtu.be/N2F7qdTRBII
A video of the C-130 landing at DBO is here: https://youtu.be/7KUprBZsdcI
His book "Shades of Blue" may be purchased by calling or messaging Rajhans Publications at 9372225201.
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Dec 11, 2021
PK Raveendran: Flight Test Engineer and rescuer of a Prime Minister
We interview Wg. Cdr. PK Raveendran, a Flight Engineer on board the ill-fated TU-124 "Pushpaka" which crashed in Jorhat with the Prime Minister on Board. In addition to the crash, he talks of his career as a Flight Engineer on Packets, becoming a Flight Test Engineer in France, and more.
Wg. Cdr. Raveendran's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12821
His account of the Pushpaka crash is here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/history/1970s/1364-jorhat-crash.html#gsc.tab=0
An article on Klopfstein he wrote for the Society of Flight Test Engineers, India Chapter, is here: https://www.sfte-india.in/a-tribute-to-a-maverick-flight-test-engineer-test-pilot-and-professor-of-aeronautics-all-rolled-into-one-monsieur-gilbert-klopfstein/
Wg. Cdr. Raveendran played a critical role in the Flight Testing for the LCA, and his interview on those experiences will appear as part of the series on the LCA, in January.
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Dec 4, 2021
Jagbir Singh: Jaisalmer Hunters play havoc
1971 war veteran Air Vice Marshal Jagbir Singh recounts his experiences operating hunters from Jaisalmer. He talks of hitting tanks in Longewala, hitting the Sui Gas Plant, hitting a tank train carrying Pakistan's strategic reserve, and more...
AVM Jagbir Singh's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/5783
More about Longewala is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/history/1971war/1282-kukke-suresh.html and here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/history/1971war/1281-longewala-saga.html#gsc.tab=0
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Nov 27, 2021
Jaideep Maolankar: Naval fighter pilot and Test Pilot
In a long but fascinating interview with Cmde Jaideep "Mao" Maolankar, we discuss Naval Aviation and how it is different from the Air Force or Army Aviation, his path into that branch of the Navy, his initial training and experiences flying the Sea Harrier, Dissimilar Combat (DACT) with the Air Force's TACDE ("Top Gun" school), becoming a test pilot, flight testing the MiG-29, integrating new systems into the Sea Harrier, and his initial involvement with the LCA.
In another interview that will be released as part of a mini-series on the LCA / Tejas, we will discuss his experience of flight testing that aircraft.
Cmde Maolankar can be followed on twitter at https://twitter.com/JA_Maolankar
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Nov 20, 2021
Vinayak Davray: Navigator Extraordinaire and International Aircraft Accident Investigator
In this episode, we interview Wg. Cdr. Vinayak Davray, who was commissioned as a Navigator into the Indian Air Force in 1963. After a long a successful career on Dakotas and Canberras, he moved to civil aviation, where he played a key role in the growth of Civil Aviation Departments of several countries around the world. He also trained as an Aircraft Accident Investigator in the US, and led / participated in several important accident investigations.
His profile may be found here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/7475
A link to the Gulf Air A320 crash is here: https://wiki2.org/en/Gulf_Air_Flight_072
A link to the mid-air crash between a TU-154M and B757 is here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2002_%C3%9Cberlingen_mid-air_collision
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Nov 13, 2021
Sumit Mukherji: Fishbed, Flogger, Foxbat, Fulcrum
In this episode, we interview Air Marshal Sumit Mukherji, who is perhaps one of the few officers to have commanded and actively flown every type of MiG in the Indian Air Force's inventory - MiG-21, 23, 25, 27 and 29. In this interview, among other things, he talks about force landing a Kiran with a seized engine, flying the MiG-25 Foxbat, and commanding a MiG-29 Fulcrum squadron.
Air Marshal Mukherji's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12925
His excellent Hush-Kit article on the Foxbat is here: https://hushkit.net/2018/12/12/loneliness-at-mach-3-interview-with-a-mig-25-foxbat-pilot/
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Nov 6, 2021
Harish Nayani: Bison induction
The induction of a new aircraft is always an interesting phase in military aviation. In this episode we speak to Air Cmde Harish Nayani, a test pilot who participated in the significant upgrade to the MiG-21 BIS that resulted in the MiG-21 Bison and was one of the first officers to command a Bison squadron. Through this interview, we will learn about how such upgrades are planned and executed.
Air Cmde Nayani's bio can be seen at this link: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/17135
More about the MiG-21 Bison upgrade program is available at this link: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/aircraft/current/605-bison.html
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Oct 30, 2021
Sunil Nanodkar: Jaguars at Red-Flag, Alaska
In this episode we return to that versatile deep penetration strike platform of the IAF, the Jaguar, with AVM Sunil Jayant Nanodkar. In 2003, AVM Nanodkar led a contingent of 6 Jaguars to Alaska to participate in exercise Red Flag with friendly NATO forces. He speaks this, and other experiences in his long career in the Air Force in this interview.
AVM Nanodkar's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16555
More about Red Flag can be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Flag_%E2%80%93_Alaska
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Oct 23, 2021
P Rajkumar: Hunting subs, saving lives, in a Navy Sea King
Continuing our theme of "Helicopter Month", we interview Capt. P Rajkumar, a veteran of the Indian Navy with over 5,400 hours of military aviation experience. He was awarded a Nao Sena Medal for rescuing four scientists stranded on a mountain in white-out conditions in Antarctica, and a Shaurya Chakra for saving lives of fishermen off the coast of Trivandrum after Hurricane Ockhi in 2017. He speaks of these and other experiences, including Anti-Submarine Warfare, in this interview.
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Oct 16, 2021
Nitin Welde: Glacier Captain
No discussion on Helicopters in Indian military aviation can be complete without talking about their employment in the Siachen Glacier.
This week, continuing "Helicopter Month", we speak to Gp Capt Nitin Welde about his experiences flying Chetaks and Cheetahs all around the country, particularly in the Siachen Glacier.
Gp Capt Welde's bio can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/23193
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Oct 9, 2021
Amardeep Sidhu: From ALH to Pushpak - a lifelong passion for flying
Continuing "Helicopter Month" we interview Brig. Amardeep Sidhu of the Army Aviation Corps. Brig Sidhu was trained as one of the Army's first Experimental Test Pilots, and participated extensively in the flight test program for the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Dhruv and it's weaponized variant, the Rudra. He raised and commanded the Army's first ALH squadron, and the first Aviation Brigade. He also built and flew a Pushpak light aircraft all around the country to commemorate various milestones in Army Aviation's history.
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Oct 2, 2021
Subhash Chander: Mi-17 to the rescue at Timber Trail
We launch "Helicopter Month" with an interview with Gp Capt Subhash Chander, who has over 26,000 hours flying helicopters in the Air Force and for Pawan Hans. Gp Capt Chander was the pilot who flew a Mi-17 dangerously close to dangling wires to help rescue 8 civilians who were stranded in a cable car at the Timber Trail resort, Parwanoo, Himachal Pradesh. He speaks of this, and other experiences in his long career as a military aviator and helicopter pilot.
Gp. Capt. Chander's bio is available here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12957
Read more about the Timber Trail rescue here: https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/special-report/story/19921115-tourists-find-themselves-suspended-between-life-and-death-in-timber-trail-mountain-767103-2012-12-24
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Sep 25, 2021
Operation Cactus: Part 4 - Drama on the high seas
In November 1988, Tamil Rebels from PLOTE of Sri Lanka, at the instigation of a Maldivian national, Abdulla Luthfee, attempted an armed coup to overthrow the legitimate government of that small island nation in the Indian Ocean. President Gayoom of the Maldives appealed to many regional and global powers, but it was India that responded swiftly and effectively. This episode is part 2 of a miniseries featuring four gentlemen who were central to its planning and execution.
* Brig (later Gen) VP Malik, Dy DG of Military Operations at Army HQ, Delhi
* Gp Capt AG Bewoor, Commanding Officer of 44 Squadron, flying IL-76 heavy lift aircraft, based in Agra.
* Col (later Brig.) Subhash Joshi, Commanding Officer of 6 Para, the unit that was rushed to the Maldives
* Capt (later Cmde) Hari Anant Gokhale, Commanding Officer of INS Betwa, a warship that was dispatched to catch the rebels as they tried to escape.
In Part 1 we covered the initial call for help from Male, and the discussions a…
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Sep 18, 2021
Operation Cactus: Part 3 - Paras go into action
In November 1988, Tamil Rebels from PLOTE of Sri Lanka, at the instigation of a Maldivian national, Abdulla Luthfee, attempted an armed coup to overthrow the legitimate government of that small island nation in the Indian Ocean. President Gayoom of the Maldives appealed to many regional and global powers, but it was India that responded swiftly and effectively. This episode is part 2 of a miniseries featuring four gentlemen who were central to its planning and execution.
* Brig (later Gen) VP Malik, Dy DG of Military Operations at Army HQ, Delhi
* Gp Capt AG Bewoor, Commanding Officer of 44 Squadron, flying IL-76 heavy lift aircraft, based in Agra.
* Col (later Brig.) Subhash Joshi, Commanding Officer of 6 Para, the unit that was rushed to the Maldives
* Capt (later Cmde) Hari Anant Gokhale, Commanding Officer of INS Betwa, a warship that was dispatched to catch the rebels as they tried to escape.
In Part 1 we covered the initial call for help from Male, and the discussions a…
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Sep 11, 2021
Operation Cactus: Part 2 - Getting airborne, setting sail
In November 1988, Tamil Rebels from PLOTE of Sri Lanka, at the instigation of a Maldivian national, Abdulla Luthfee, attempted an armed coup to overthrow the legitimate government of that small island nation in the Indian Ocean. President Gayoom of the Maldives appealed to many regional and global powers, but it was India that responded swiftly and effectively. This episode is part 2 of a miniseries featuring four gentlemen who were central to its planning and execution.
* Brig (later Gen) VP Malik, Dy DG of Military Operations at Army HQ, Delhi
* Gp Capt AG Bewoor, Commanding Officer of 44 Squadron, flying IL-76 heavy lift aircraft, based in Agra.
* Col (later Brig.) Subhash Joshi, Commanding Officer of 6 Para, the unit that was rushed to the Maldives
* Capt (later Cmde) Hari Anant Gokhale, Commanding Officer of INS Betwa, a warship that was dispatched to catch the rebels as they tried to escape.
In Part 1 we covered the initial call for help from Male, and the discussions a…
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Sep 4, 2021
Operation Cactus: Part 1 - The call for help and initial preparation
In November 1988, Tamil Rebels from PLOTE of Sri Lanka, at the instigation of a Maldivian national, Abdulla Luthfee, attempted an armed coup to overthrow the legitimate government of that small island nation in the Indian Ocean. President Gayoom of the Maldives appealed to many regional and global powers, but it was India that responded swiftly and effectively.
In the course of the next few episodes, we will bring listeners the story of that operation, called "Operation Cactus" through interviews with four gentlemen who were central to its planning and execution.
* Brig (later Gen) VP Malik, Dy DG of Military Operations at Army HQ, Delhi
* Gp Capt AG Bewoor, Commanding Officer of 44 Squadron, flying IL-76 heavy lift aircraft, based in Agra.
* Col (later Brig.) Subhash Joshi, Commanding Officer of 6 Para, the unit that was rushed to the Maldives
* Capt (later Cmde) Hari Anant Gokhale, Commanding Officer of INS Betwa, a warship that was dispatched to catch the rebels as they tr…
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Aug 28, 2021
P Ashoka: The life and times of one of India's most famous test pilots
In this episode, we interview a legendary fighter pilot and test pilot of the Indian Air Force and HAL, Wg. Cdr. Padmanabha Ashoka. He speaks about various experiences in his long career as a test pilot, including doing a loop in an Avro, low level aerobatics in a MiG-21 and more.
Wg. Cdr. Ashoka's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/4653
His book, "Riding the Wind" may be purchased here: https://www.amazon.in/Riding-Wind-Test-Pilots-Story/dp/9388161645/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=p+ashoka&qid=1628657077&sr=8-4
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Aug 21, 2021
Arjun Subramaniam: Understanding electronic warfare
Electronic warfare - electronic intelligence, jamming, suppression of air defences, counter-measures, counter-counter measures... the world of aerial warfare has been transformed over the last few decades by these technologies.
In this episode, we interview Air Vice Marshal Arjun Subramaniam, who spent many years in a specialist electronic warfare squadron, to understand how some of these technologies work.
AVM Subramaniam's profile can be viewed here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/16592
AVM Subramaniam is an accomplished author. His books may be purchased here: https://www.amazon.in/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AArjun+Subramaniam&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1
He is also active on Twitter, at https://twitter.com/rhinohistorian
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Aug 14, 2021
Anil Kumar "Toots" Ghosh: Canberra bombers in the 1971 war
Continuing with theme of the 1971 war for the Liberation of Bangladesh, we interview Gp. Capt. Anil Kumar "Toots" Ghosh, who flew long-range night bomber missions in a Canberra every night of the war. From their base in Agra, Canberras hit targets in both northern West Pakistan, and around Dacca in the East.
Gp. Capt. Ghosh's career profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/6525
More articles and information on Canberras available here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/aircraft/past/canberras.html
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Aug 7, 2021
KC Kuruvilla: Part 3 of 3-Repatriation and return to flying
In the final part of this 3-part miniseries, we hear Air Cmde KC Kuruvilla speak about his ultimate release from custody, repatriation to India and the reception he got when he returned. We also briefly touch on his other ejections, how he fought to retain his fighter flying status, and plans to make a movie on his life.
Air Cmde KC Kuruvilla's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/10862
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Jul 31, 2021
KC Kuruvilla: Part 2 of 3-Incarceration, Help with Escape, Consequences
Join Air Cmde KC Kuruvilla for Part 2 of this 3-Part miniseries on his capture and incarceration during the 1971 War. In this episode we talk about his experience as a POW, preparations to help his fellow POWs escape, and the consequences of that escape. A nail-biting episode featuring Maps woven into collars, magnetized needles hidden in ballpoint pens, and missing screwdrivers.
In Part 3 we'll cover his repatriation and return to flying.
Air Cmde Kuruvilla's profile can be seen here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/10862
An article (purporting to be an extract from Air Chief Marshal PC Lal's book) on their incarceration with a map of their POW camp can be found here: http://www.indiandefencereview.com/spotlights/escape-attempt-from-rawalpindi-pow-camp/
Another one is here: https://www.rediff.com/news/specia/an-indian-prisoner-of-war-escape-story-special/20130904.htm
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Jul 24, 2021
KC Kuruvilla: Part 1 of 3-A sword of honour goes to war
In Part One of this three-part miniseries with Air Cmde KC Kuruvilla, we cover his initial journey into the Air Force, a hair raising forced landing in a Hunter, action during the 1971 War for the Liberation of Bangladesh and the mission where he was shot down and captured.
In Part 2 we'll cover his incarceration and how he helped 3 of his fellow POWs escape and the consequences of that; In Part 3 we'll cover his repatriation and return to flying.
Air Cmde Kuruvilla's profile can be seen here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/10862
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Jul 17, 2021
CV Parker: Anecdotes from a Legend of the IAF
In this episode, guest host KS Sreekumar Nair speaks to a legend of the Indian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Cecil Vivian Parker, MVC, VM.
AVM Parker talks of some interesting episodes from his long and distinguished Air Force career, such as bailing out from a Tempest with an engine on fire, ferrying a Vampire with a load of lamb chops and landing an aircraft with a hung napalm bomb, an extremely dangerous undertaking. He also speaks of being chastised by then Air Cmde (later Air Chief Marshal) PC Lal for unauthorized low flying, and hosting the Governor of AP, Mrs. Sharda Mukherjee (wife of late Air Marshal Subroto Mukherjee), at an AF Day party, which was how the Hakimpet Airmen's mess got its first black and white TV.
AVM Parker's career profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/4346
His exploits during the 1971 war are here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/history/1971war/1378-the-saving-of-chander.html#gsc.tab=0
Our guest host KS Sree Kumar Nair's books can…
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Jul 10, 2021
Pushp Vaid: Heli-lifting troops for the dash to Dacca
In this episode, we interview Sqn Ldr Pushp Kumar Vaid, Flt Cdr of 110 HU. His detachment of Mi-4 helicopters provided battlefield mobility to the legendary GOC of 4 Corps, Lt. Gen. Sagat Singh, during the 1971 war for the liberation of Bangladesh.
Sqn Ldr Vaid describes how they airlifted a Battalion of 4/5 Gurkhas to Sylhet under heavy enemy fire, thereby holing up the Brigade there till the end of the war. He then goes on to describe airlifting a whole Brigade across the Meghna river, that allowed the dash for Dacca. He then describes the mood in Dacca during the surrender ceremony and his experience accompanying Bollywood stars who came to entertain the troops.
Sqn Ldr Vaid then left the Air Force to fly helicopters for British Airways, where he had a miraculous escape from an in-flight breakup of a Chinook helicopter in the North Sea. We conclude the interview with his description of that event.
Sqn Ldr Pushp Vaid's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/D…
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Jul 3, 2021
Ashok Chhibbar: The Making of Military Aviators
Last chance to enter in the surprise gift sweepstakes! Take our survey and enter your email ID for a chance to win: www.blueskiespodcast.com/survey
In this episode, we interview Air Cmde Ashok D. Chhibbar about his experiences and career in the Air Force. With his long experience flying fighter aircraft like the MiG-21 and equally long experience at various positions in the instruction and training arena, he discusses training philosophy of the Air Force, the gradual increase in responsibilities, qualities that make a military aviator, and tells of his experience ejecting from a MiG-21 on fire.
Air Cmde Chhibbar's career profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12118
His books on Amazon can be found here: https://www.amazon.in/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AASHOK+CHHIBBAR&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1
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Jun 26, 2021
HS Sahota: A Farmer's Son who dared to Fly
Join Air Cmde HS Sahota as he describes some interesting anecdotes of his long and successful career in the Air Force - from getting lost in a Vampire above the clouds, to chasing Pakistani B-57s away from Mumbai and firing rockets from a Mi-17 against LTTE rebels in Vavuniya. He also reveals the secrets of how he won the first 3-Star "Marksman of the Air Force" badge.
Air Cmde HS Sahota's career profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/7663
A link to his book on Amazon is here: https://www.amazon.in/Farmers-Son-Who-Dared-Fly/dp/9390011191/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=hs+sahota&qid=1624705545&sr=8-5
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Jun 19, 2021
Mohit Verma-Cheetahs to the rescue-Army Aviation
In this episode we get into the cockpit of an Army Aviation Cheetah (Lama 315B) with Col Mohit Verma and ride along as he lands his helicopter in tight spots to support forward troops, evacuate casualties, and provide aerial guidance to the artillery.
Read more about the Cheetah here: https://hal-india.co.in/Product_Details.aspx?Mkey=54&lKey=&CKey=25
Read more about Army Aviation Corps here: https://indianarmy.nic.in/Site/FormTemplete/frmTempSimple.aspx?MnId=IvNNRO87IpIXk2/ydH4+Cg==&ParentID=v4JVNvvuKa000vCIL7FrgQ==&flag=karSjmz4djR1rJAKV6oJQg==
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Jun 12, 2021
Murli Menon-Flying and fighting in the MiG-21 and MiG-23 MF
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It's MiG time! Gp. Capt. PI Murlidharan Menon takes us into the cockpit of his beloved MiG-21, which he describes as a "sports car". He describes the skills required for air combat, and his experiences operating against different aircraft, standing first in the Fighter Combat Leader's course, and being an instructor on that course (a real "Top Gun"). He also speaks about commanding a MiG-23 MF (Air Defence) squadron.
Gp. Capt. Menon's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/13579
More information on the Tactics and Combat Development Establishment, TACDE, can be found here: https://indianairforce.nic.in/content/tactics-air-combat-development-establishment
A later version of the doctrine of the Indian Air Force can be found here: https://fdocuments.in/document/basic-doctrine-of-indian-air-force-2012pdf.html
(The leader of the team that wrote this version appears on a l…
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Jun 5, 2021
CM Jaywant-Saving an Ajeet, Chasing an Eclipse
In this action packed episode, Wg. Cdr. (Retd) CM Jaywant tells us about his experiences flying three different fighter aircraft - (1) A Gnat / Ajeet where he had a engine failure at low level but managed to force-land (land without an engine) the aircraft safely, (2) the MiG-23/27 where he fired the X-29 TV Guided missile and conducted offensive sweeps over the Siachen Glacier, and (3) the MiG-25, where he flew a mission chasing a solar eclipse at high speed across Northern India.
Wg. Cdr. Jaywant's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/13587
Learn about the Gnat / Ajeet at this special page: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Galleries/Aircraft/Vintage/Fighters/Gnat/
and about the MiG-25 here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/aircraft/past/963-mig25.html
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May 29, 2021
Pradeep Mulay-Flying the lethal Mi-35 Gunship
In this episode, we interview a pilot who had more than 1,500 flying fighters, became a test pilot and then transitioned to helicopters, where he commanded a squadron of the lethal Mi-35 "Akbar" (Nato Codename: Hind) helicopter.
Learn about the Mi-35 here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Galleries/Aircraft/Current/Helicopters/Mi25/
and about a project to upgrade the aircraft here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/aircraft/current/609-mi35-himanshu.html#gsc.tab=0
Read about 104 Helicopter Unit: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/Units/104%20HS&init=on
Gp. Capt. Pradeep Mulay's profile is here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12935
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May 22, 2021
Joseph Thomas - Part 2 - Test Flying
In Part 2 of this 2-part interview, Wg. Cdr. Joseph "Tommy" Thomas discusses his journey as a Test Pilot, including training at USAF Test Pilot's School, Edwards AFB, California (where among other things, he learned how to land an F-104 without an engine), an ejection from an Iskra in an unrecoverable flat spin, and an incident where the nosewheel of a Marut locked up and dragged him off the runway.
Learn more about USAF TP School at https://www.edwards.af.mil/units/usaftps/
Learn about India's Test Pilot's School at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Air_Force_Test_Pilot_School
and its flight test establishment, ASTE (Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment) at https://indianairforce.nic.in/content/aircraft-and-systems-testing-establishment
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May 15, 2021
Joseph Thomas: Part 1 - Supporting the army and mapping the country
In this episode, we hear from Wg. Cdr. Joseph "Tommy" Thomas about his experiences as a young Dakota pilot in the 60s, flying vital supplies to soldiers in J&K in a fully loaded aircraft, threading his way through the valleys and operating at the margin of the performance envelope. We also hear about his experience flying the Photo Reconnaissance ("PR") Canberra, mapping the borders and the length and breadth of the country.
Wg. Cdr. Joseph Thomas was commissioned into the Transport stream of the IAF in 1962. He later qualified as a Test Pilot at USAF Test Pilot's School, Edwards AF Base, California and set up India's Test Pilot School and ran the first few Production TP courses. We will speak to him about his test flying experiences in Part 2 of this interview, next week.
His interview about mapping the country's border, referenced in this interview can be accessed at https://bangaloreinternationalcentre.org/audio/mapping-the-india-china-border-with-joseph-thomas/
Wg. Cdr. Thomas'…
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May 8, 2021
Sandeep Balyan: Low, fast, lethal - the maritime Jaguar
Building on last week's episode with G/C Ajit Agtey, where he discussed the trials that led to the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) for the DARIN Navigation and Attack system, this week, we speak to a squadron pilot who used that system in a specialist maritime strike role. Hear about how Jaguars operate over the sea, do air-to-air refueling, and find and hit a target with pinpoint accuracy the first time they pass over it.
Gp. Capt. Sandeep Balyan's profile can be found here: http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/22699
A gallery of Maritime Jaguars can be seen here: https://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Galleries/Aircraft/Current/Fighters/JaguarIM/
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May 1, 2021
Ajit Agtey: (Part 2) Test Flying - DARIN Jaguar, AN-32, etc.
Get into the cockpit of a Jaguar with Gp. Capt. Ajit Agtey in Part 2 of this two-part interview, and hear about the trials leading to Initial Operational Clearance for the DARIN Jaguar. In that you'll learn how he won a case of Champagne from a French engineer. He also talks about his experiences fitting AN-12 engines on an AN-32 and other test flying experiences.
You can read more about the DARIN in this wonderful blog post by Air Cmde TK "Tiku" Sen -- https://tkstales.wordpress.com/2010/03/07/the-darin-story/
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Apr 24, 2021
Ajit Agtey: (Part 1) Training, 71 War and Ejection
In Part one of this interview, Gp Capt Ajit Agtey describes his journey joining the Air Force, being trained as an operational pilot on the Gnat as the dark clouds of war gather in 1971. He then talks about his experiences in the war, and an emergency that forced him to eject from that same aircraft, the Gnat.
View Gp Capt Agtey's profile at this link:
http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/Database/12188
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Apr 17, 2021
Harish Masand: (Part 2) Shooting a Sabre, rattling Niazi
Join us in Part 2 of Air Marshal (then Fg. Offr.) Harish Masand's recounting of his experiences during the 1971 war against Pakistan for the Liberation of Bangladesh.
In this episode he describes how he shot down a Pakistani F-86 Sabre, and later hit Government House, in the middle of a crucial meeting of the Pakistani leadership. That attack had a key role in breaking their confidence and resulted in their surrender shortly thereafter.
View Air Mshl Masand's profile on Bharat Rakshak.
View a few articles he wrote on his lessons and experiences on our Blog Page.
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Apr 10, 2021
Harish Masand: (Part 1) Training for War
As they say in the military, you sweat in peace so you don't in war. Join young Air Marshal (then Flying Officer) Harish Masand as he recounts the story of his experiences joining the Air Force, and struggling to find opportunities to train to fly the Hunter fighter aircraft in the days leading up to the 1971 War for the Liberation of Bangladesh.
View Air Mshl Masand's profile on Bharat Rakshak.
Read an article he wrote about his experience in the lead up to the war at:
https://blueskiespodcast.com/blog
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Apr 3, 2021
Philip Rajkumar: Attacking Sargodha
In retaliation to the Pakistan Air Force's attack on Indian airfields on 6th Sep, 1965, IAF squadrons attacked Sargodha, the PAF's largest base, the next day, in broad daylight. Listen to Air Marshal (the Fg. Offr.) Philip Rajkumar recount his experience of that daring raid.
Read more:
His article on the attack at Bharat Rakshak.
An excellent article by Sameer Joshi in The Print.
View Air Marshal Rajkumar's profile at Bharat Rakshak.
Links to his books:
The Tejas Story
Radiance in Indian Skies
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Mar 27, 2021
PM Ramachandran: Sinking the NRP Vega
Air Marshal (then Flt. Lt.) PM Ramachandran recounts the story of his attacking and blowing up a Portuguese Patrol Boat in Diu during Ops Vijay.
The Patrol Boat, the "NRP Vega" may have been on a suicide mission, packed with explosives, to ram into INS Delhi, which was anchored offshore directing operations to liberate the island.
Some useful links:
Air Marshal Ramachandran's profile on Bharat Rakshak
Air Marshal Ramachandran's Wikipedia page
His article on the episode on Bharat Rakshak
The Portuguese Navy on Wikipedia
An overview of the Liberation of Goa on Wikipedia and Bharat Rakshak.
Thanks to Bharat Rakshak for the content and photographs.
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Feb 22, 2021
Introduction
Ever wondered what it's like to be a Military Aviator in India? Subscribe to the Blue Skies Podcast to find out! Every week we put you in the cockpit through a conversation with a member of the Indian Air Force, Army or Navy.
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