Sagat and Helicopters True Pillars of Victory

This article looks at the real issues that were responsible for destabilising the centre of gravity of Pakistan Army in the eastern sector. Lieutenant
General (Lt Gen) Sagat’s contribution was instrumental in creating Bangladesh in the shortest possible time. With the narrative all about this axiom, the article documents the original military plans for the campaign and how Sagat forced everyone to adapt through his engineered and controlled chaos. It also documents the critical role of the Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters, so well embraced by a dynamic and open-minded general. In specific, the contribution of the ageing Mi-4 helicopters is spelt out. More importantly, a deeper analysis follows of why Lt GenSagat’s brilliance and the indomitable courage of the IAF helicopter pilots was subdued and brushed under the carpet. It is important to learn the right lessons from history rather than an agenda-based documentation.