God blesses Angel of Mercy: IAF heroes return after 16 months

What reminds India of the Somali Civil War has nothing to do with actual bombs and guns, but with the waiting that Indian families did for the troops of the Indian Airforce that were deployed there. The IAF batch – Angel of Mercy, took part in the peacekeeping duties in Somalia from August 1993 to Dec 1994, as part of the Indian contingent supporting UN operations.

The aftermath of a truck bomb in the centre of Mogadishu, Somali. (Source: Eyewitness News)

What reminds India of the Somali Civil War has nothing to do with actual bombs and guns, but with the waiting that Indian families did for the troops of the Indian Airforce that were deployed there. The IAF batch – Angel of Mercy, took part in the peacekeeping duties in Somalia from August 1993 to Dec 1994, as part of the Indian contingent supporting UN operations.

With the downfall of the Somali president, Siad Barra, and the resulting power struggle and clan clashes, the situation in Somalia deteriorated so quickly that it was a civil war zone with hundreds dead and thousands fleeing. Indian troops were sent over for peacekeeping. IAF contingents and helicopters were put to use in opening back roads and convoy escorting, aerial recce, casualty evacuation and communication.

The first batch of Indian troops landed in Somalia in August 1993 and formally finished their induction by October 1993. The troops were ready to take charge by November 1993. Thereafter, the Indian hospitals were immediately operational alongside aviation duties. The risk faced was similar as to entering any war-zone with bombs and grenades being propelled in all directions. Often barracks that housed IAF officers were hit critically, leaving multiple officers injured.

Two helicopters were deployed along with the first batch of personnel; launching the first sortie in Somalia within an hour of their arrival. Operation sorties were undertaken in Somalia and the IAF troops managed to perform their duties well. In February, with 500 refugees in escort, the Mahar battalion was provided air cover by the IAF.

The Indian contingent faced its fair share of tragedies during the war in Somalia with soldiers attacked and ambushed on a daily basis. Seven, including a JCO, lost their lives. As it came around, the Republic Day was much celebrated with the flypast put up by the AIF and Air OP much appreciated.

In conclusion, what Indians remember of the Somali Civil War is the 4th of January 1995, when finally after 16 months and 700 sorties later, the IAF batch – Angel of Mercy, finally returned home.