For a large part of India's population, the first and only war they have witnessed is the Kargil War between India and Pakistan in 1999. From 'LOC Kargil' (2003) to 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl' (2020), over ten films have brought this final war on Indian soil to the silver screen from various angles.
Most films depict the war as a ground battle, highlighting the courage and tactical prowess of the Indian Army and its heroes. However, there are not many films focusing on the Indian Air Force's role. Aside from 'Gunjan Saxena', this aspect of the Kargil War hasn't been extensively explored. Netflix is now set to change this with a new series dedicated to Operation Safed Sagar.
This series, titled 'Safed Sagar', is directed by Oni Sen, known for the Arshad Warsi-starrer series 'Asur'. 'Safed Sagar' will feature notable actors like Abhay Verma and southern cinema star Siddharth, alongside Jimmy Shergill and Diya Mirza. Let's explore what happened during the Kargil War's Operation Safed Sagar that has inspired a Netflix show.
Source: aajtak
Operation Safed Sagar’s Aerial Feat
During the Kargil War, the Indian Air Force's operations were code-named 'Operation Safed Sagar'. It began with reconnaissance missions by IAF's Cheetah helicopters. When Pakistani intrusion into Indian territory was detected, these missions gauged the gravity of the situation. These helicopters lacked cameras, sensors, and weapons, having only a single-engine, yet pilots navigated them in low-oxygen and low-density areas.
Post-aerial reconnaissance, the IAF deployed eight MI-17 helicopters. Their duties included transporting troops, ferrying arms, and undertaking crucial supply missions. During one such mission, an IAF Canberra aircraft fell prey to Pakistani fire but adept piloting ensured its landing in Srinagar with one engine.
Valor Beyond the Ground
Alongside transport and supply, evacuating wounded soldiers from engagement points was the IAF aircraft's responsibility. With road transport not viable, the IAF continuously supplied arms to troops engaging in battle. Initially, the IAF supported ground troops, as noted by Group Captain Praveer Purohit (Retired) in Financial Express. However, with political clearance, helicopters were armed for offensive operations to reclaim Indian territories covered by enemy forces.
As ground battle intensity surged, IAF aircraft increased deployment. Fighter jets like the MiG-21, MiG-23, and MiG-27 were tasked with attacks on enemy positions. Yet, challenging geographic and frosty mountain conditions imposed hurdles, eventually leading to the induction of Mirage 2000 fighter planes, significantly influencing India's Kargil victory.
The IAF's contribution during the Kargil War has not been thoroughly cinematically represented, but Netflix's show 'Safed Sagar' aims to fill this gap. Focusing on the 47-day operation, it highlights the valiant efforts of IAF pilots to dislodge Pakistani forces from the Indian segment of the Line of Control (LOC). With a formidable cast of Siddharth, Abhay Verma, Jimmy Shergill, and Diya Mirza, 'Safed Sagar' promises to be a gripping series.
