Founded on July 2, 1963, at Tezpur by Squadron Leader B.S. Kalra, the 111 Helicopter Unit quickly established itself as a formidable force, initially piloting the sturdy MI-4 helicopters. During this period the Units also had a detachment of two ac for his highness of the King of Nepal. The unit demonstrated its strategic capability in 1965 with significant rocket attacks in Jammu & Kashmir. By 1966, it relocated to Hashimara, and in 1971, it was instrumental in the Bangladesh Liberation War, conducting operations from multiple locations and executing a variety of missions. The unit entered a new era in 1976 with the acquisition of Chetak helicopters, enhancing its operational capabilities. In 1983, it moved to Bareilly, was rebranded as the "Snow Tigers," and transitioned to an attack role. It engaged in extensive joint exercises with the Army and Air Force, solidifying its reputation as a versatile and formidable unit. In 2003, the unit transitioned away from its previous role due to the phasing out of the AS-11 Malyutka missile system. On May 11, 2004, the unit reached new heights by setting a world record for the highest landing by a Cheetah helicopter at an altitude of 23,250 feet. This feat was accomplished during a rescue operation for mountaineers from the Air Force Mount Kamet Expedition Team, marking a significant milestone in the unit's history of exceptional performance and service.