Operation Safed Sagar: The IAF Mission That Changed the Kargil War

Operation Safed Sagar was the Indian Air Force’s major air campaign launched in support of the Army’s Operation Vijay during the 1999 Kargil War. Pakistani forces had occupied strategic positions across the Kargil, Dras and Batalik sectors at extremely high altitudes. The IAF’s 17 Squadron, known as the Golden Arrows, was deployed to strike these positions. Operating in challenging mountainous terrain and at altitudes of around 14,000 to 18,000 feet, the squadron targeted enemy positions, ammunition and supply bases. Mirage 2000 fighter jets were also deployed for precision strikes, including attacks on the strategically important Tiger Hill.

A major turning point came with the successful use of laser-guided bombs. On June 24, 1999, Wing Commander Raghunath Nambiar reportedly used a Mirage 2000 to deliver a laser-guided bomb against a Pakistani position on Tiger Hill. India’s ability to employ this precision technology was strengthened by urgent technical assistance from Israel. Israeli specialists worked with the IAF for around 12 days in Bengaluru and Gwalior to integrate the Lightning laser-designator pods with the aircraft and weapons. During the conflict, the IAF conducted hundreds of strike, reconnaissance and escort missions, helping disrupt Pakistani supply lines and supporting ground troops in recapturing strategic positions. The Golden Arrows included notable personnel such as B.S. Dhanoa, Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja and Flying Officer Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal, whose contributions remain an important part of the Kargil War’s military history.