Date:27/05/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/27/stories/2006052717420900.htm

National

Another first: Kalam to fly in fighter aircraft

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam would be flying in an aircraft belonging to one of the most decorated squadrons of the Indian Air Force (IAF), it was officially announced here on Friday. A sortie will be conducted on June 8 for Mr. Kalam to familiarise with the systems and capability of the aircraft. This will be the first time that the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces will fly in a fighter aircraft.

The President will be visiting Lohegaon-based 20 Lightning Squadron which is celebrating its Golden Jubilee. Formed in 1956 at Halwara with Vampire aircraft, it is one of the oldest squadrons and has taken part in all the operations in which IAF was deployed. It is also the most decorated squadron with two Mahavir Chakras, five Vir Chakras, three Mention-in-Dispatches and one Vayu Sena Medal. Its `war trophies' include two air-to-air kills, 13 aircraft on ground including two C-130 Hercules, 10 battle tanks, and scores of railway wagon, locomotive, field artillery and trucks. During the Golden Jubilee celebrations, Chief of Naval Staff Arun Prakash will be the chief guest. He was posted in this squadron as a Lieutenant during the 1971 operations and was awarded the Vir Chakra.