On This Day

24 June 1965: PAF Intercepts IAF Jet

24 June 1965, Pakistan Air Force demonstrated its unmatched vigilance and operational readiness when PAF fighters scrambled to challenge an intruding Indian Air Force aircraft near the town of Badin in Sindh.

The intruder, a Dassault Ouragan (Tail Number IC 698) on an Armed Reconnaissance mission, had violated Pakistani airspace in a provocative act during a period of rising regional tensions. The aircraft was intercepted by PAF F-104 Starfighter, which compelled the intruding pilot, Flight Lieutenant Rana Lal Chand Sikka of No 51 Auxiliary Squadron from IAF’s Jamnagar Air Station, to surrender and land his aircraft in an open field near Jangshahi village. He was promptly apprehended by Pakistani authorities and treated in accordance with international conventions governing Prisoners of War. In a notable gesture of goodwill and restraint, the Government of Pakistan released Flt Lt Sikka on 14 August 1965—Pakistan’s Independence Day—underscoring the country’s commitment to peace despite adversarial provocation. Following his return to India, he was dismissed from service by Indian Air Force in 1969.

The feat remains a significant chapter in the history of PAF, reflecting its resolute defence of national airspace and the professionalism of its aircrew.