Colonel Khushal Thakur

Hostage Crisis Resolved: Defence Minister George Fernandes congratulating Colonel Khushal Thakur at Hastings, Sierra Leone on 20 July 2000. The Indian Air Force played a key role in this rescue operation by providing three Mi-35 gunships, three Mi-8 assault helicopters and two HAL Chetaks for recce, observation and CASEVAC (Casualty Evacuation). This eight-strong helicopter force was commanded by Group Captain B.S. Siwach, AVSM, SM.