Demonstrating its rapid response capability and commitment to supporting civil authorities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted extensive aerial firefighting operations to contain a major forest fire in the Kasauli region of Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district.
The IAF received information regarding the forest fire on 26 May and immediately deployed a Cheetah helicopter to assess the situation. Following the initial reconnaissance, Mi-17 V5 medium-lift helicopters were mobilised under the Aid to Civil Authorities framework to combat the rapidly spreading blaze.
The fire, which engulfed nearly 10 hectares of forest in the Kasauli Beat area, posed a significant threat to nearby residential settlements, critical civilian infrastructure and military establishments. In close coordination with the State Administration, State Forest Department, Indian Army and local authorities, the IAF launched sustained Bambi Bucket operations to contain the fire.
Water for the firefighting missions was sourced from Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh, with each Mi-17 V5 sortie carrying between 2,000 and 2,500 litres of water. Over the course of the operation, IAF helicopters discharged more than 93,000 litres of water on the affected area, significantly aiding efforts to prevent the fire from escalating into a larger disaster.
In a landmark achievement, the operation marked the first time the Indian Air Force conducted night-time Bambi Bucket firefighting missions using Night Vision Goggles (NVGs). Executed in mountainous terrain under challenging visibility conditions, the missions demanded exceptional flying skill, precision and operational expertise. Despite the inherent risks associated with night aerial firefighting, the sorties were carried out safely and effectively, highlighting the professionalism and dedication of IAF aircrew.
The operation also underscored the crucial role played by ground personnel, who worked continuously in demanding weather conditions to ensure rapid aircraft servicing and turnaround, enabling uninterrupted aerial firefighting efforts around the clock.
The successful containment of the Kasauli forest fire reflects the Indian Air Force’s operational versatility and its vital role in disaster response and humanitarian assistance missions across the country.
