The Indian Air Force (IAF) has once again conducted a remarkable rescue mission in conflict-torn Sudan. On Thursday, a C-17 Globemaster-III aircraft airlifted 192 people in a non-stop operation of nearly 24 hours, with a refuelling halt at Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. This comes after the IAF had previously deployed a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft to rescue 121 Indians from a small airstrip at Wadi Seyidna airport in Sudan in a daring night operation on April 27-28. India has so far managed to evacuate a total of 3,862 people from Sudan through 'Operation Kaveri'.
The C-17 aircraft took off from the Hindon airbase in the intervening night between Wednesday and Thursday, flying through the night to land in the early morning hours at Jeddah. To avoid fuel shortage and delays in Sudan, the aircraft took excess fuel at Jeddah. Upon arrival in Sudan, the aircraft executed an overhead steep tactical arrival followed by an assault approach to land at the airfield. Throughout the entire time on the ground, the aircraft's engines were kept running in readiness for a quick exit.
During the flight, the crew encountered another unplanned emergency when one of the passengers became unconscious. However, the situation was handled proficiently by the crew, who administered 100% oxygen to stabilise the passenger. The aircraft landed at Ahmedabad late in the evening on Thursday, successfully completing the mission.
The IAF's rescue operations in Sudan have been commendable and have successfully evacuated Indian nationals who were stranded and in distress. The crew's dedication and proficiency in handling such situations demonstrate the IAF's commitment to serving the nation and its people.
