Indian Air Force 18 Squadron Marks a Powerful Legacy
Newz Daddy Defence Updates
The Indian Air Force 18 Squadron, known with pride as the Flying Bullets, celebrated its Diamond Jubilee on 05 December 2025 at Air Force Station Naliya in Gujarat. The event marked 60 years of courage, skill and service. The Squadron was formed on 15 April 1965 at Ambala and has served the nation through many key moments in India’s military aviation history.
Over the decades, the Squadron has flown several important aircraft. It began with the Folland Gnat, a small fighter aircraft known for its speed and sharp movement. The Gnat became famous during the 1965 and 1971 wars for its ability to challenge much larger enemy fighters. Later, the Squadron upgraded to the Ajeet, which was an improved version of the Gnat built in India. After that, it flew the MiG-27 ML, a powerful ground-attack aircraft used for close support missions. Today, the Squadron flies the Tejas Mk1 in Final Operational Clearance (FOC) standard. The Tejas is India’s first fully indigenous fighter jet and shows the country’s growing strength in defence manufacturing.
The Flying Bullets earned a very special place in Indian Air Force history because of their brave role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The Squadron was deployed to defend the Srinagar region, which faced heavy attacks. For its bravery and skill in the face of danger, the Squadron became known as the Defenders of the Valley. One of the most courageous stories from this war is that of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon. He fought with great courage against enemy aircraft and gave his life while defending the base. His bravery earned him the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest wartime gallantry award. With this honour, 18 Squadron remains the only Squadron in the Indian Air Force to have a PVC recipient in its ranks.
To mark the Diamond Jubilee, Air Force Station Naliya hosted a special seminar that brought together serving officers, veterans and young air warriors. Speakers discussed the history of the Squadron, the challenges faced over the past 60 years and the way forward for India’s air power. These discussions highlighted how the Squadron has evolved along with India’s defence needs.
The celebration also included air displays by the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), which is famous for its red aircraft and tight formations, and by Akashganga, the Indian Air Force’s skydiving team. Such displays are known to inspire young people and reflect the high skill and discipline of the Air Force. These performances added colour and excitement to the event, making the celebration memorable for everyone present.
The event was attended by senior officers and respected veterans. Air Marshal J Chauhan (Retired), the senior-most veteran of the Squadron, graced the occasion and shared memories from earlier years of service. Air Vice Marshal Subramanian Krishanan, the senior-most serving officer linked to the Squadron, also attended and praised the dedication of current and former air warriors.
As part of the celebrations, a special cover and the Squadron History Book were released. Special covers are often issued to mark historic events in India’s defence and postal history. The History Book captures the Squadron’s long journey, stories of its missions, details of its aircraft and the achievements of its officers. These publications help preserve the legacy of the Flying Bullets for future generations.
The Diamond Jubilee was not just a celebration of the past. It also reflected India’s confidence in its growing air power. With the Tejas now in frontline service, the Squadron stands as a proud symbol of India’s push for self-reliance in defence. As the country works towards building more indigenous aircraft and advanced defence systems, the Flying Bullets continue to play an important role in both national security and technological progress.
The event at Naliya showed how history, innovation and courage come together in the Indian Air Force. For the veterans, it was a moment of pride. For the young officers, it was a reminder of the responsibility they carry. And for the nation, it was a celebration of 60 years of bravery in the skies.
