Recalling the epic dogfight over Boyra when IAF Gnats clashed and ripped through Pakistani Sabres

On this historic day, November 22, 1971, the skies over Boyra, West Bengal, became witness to a legendary clash between four Gnat fighters from the Indian Air Force's 22 Squadron 'SWIFTS' and four Sabre fighters of the Pakistan Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Roy Massey, Flight Lieutenant MA Ganapathy, and Flying Officer Don Lazarus, all Vir Chakra awardees, showcased unparalleled bravery, shooting down three PAF Sabres in the heat of the Indo-Pakistan war, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War.

In the backdrop of the larger conflict, the Battle of Boyra marked the first aerial engagement between the air forces of India and Pakistan during the 1971 war. The stage was set when the Pakistani Army, engaged in combat against Mukti Bahini and the Indian Army, sought air support from the Pakistan Air Force. Four Gnat fighters, led by Flight Lieutenant Roy Andrew Massey, were scrambled from Dumdum airfield to intercept the intruding Sabres over Boyra in West Bengal. 

The clash of titans: Indian Gnats against Pakistani Sabres 

The PAF unit, No. 14 Squadron Tail-choppers, commanded by Flight Lieutenant Parvaiz Mehdi Qureshi, faced off against the IAF's No. 22 Squadron Swifts under Wing Commander BS Sikand. The Canadair Sabre Mk 6, known for its dogfighting prowess, encountered the nimble Gnats in a battle that showcased the strategic advantage of the latter in the vertical arena. The reasons behind Flight Lieutenant Qureshi's relatively junior command position remain unclear, but suspicions of loyalty led to many Bengalis being grounded or removed from authoritative roles in the Pakistan Armed Forces during the war.

The Battle of Boyra began with the PAF providing support to Pakistani ground units near Garibpur. Four Sabres were picked up on Indian radar, prompting the swift response of the No. 22 Squadron comprising of Folland Gnat aircraft. Much to India’s dismay and despite earlier attempts, the interception failed, and the Sabres escaped. However, around 2:48 PM, the radar detected three Sabres ascending in a north-westerly direction. Within minutes, four Gnats led by Flight Lieutenant Massey were airborne. Flying Officer KB Bagchi, the fighter controller, guided the Gnats towards the Sabres. The engagement unfolded as the Sabres initiated another attack run. 

IAF’s heroic maneuvers amid dogfight 

Dividing into two sections, the Gnats, led by Massey and accompanied by Flying Officer SF Soarez, engaged the Sabres. Simultaneously, Flight Lieutenant Ganapathy and Flying Officer Lazarus targeted another pair of Sabres. The ensuing dogfight resulted in both targeted Sabres being critically damaged, forcing the Pakistani pilots to eject over Boyra.

Pakistan Air Force’s Wing Commander Chaudhury, attempted to thwart Flight Lieutenant Massey's attack, only to succumb to a relentless pursuit. Despite Chaudhury's claim of downing an IAF Gnat, Massey's accurate gunfire damaged the Sabre, which managed to limp back to Tezgaon Airfield. The victory, however, was unmistakably with the Indian Air Force, as all its Gnats returned unscathed. 

Legacy and recognition after heroes’ return 

Flight Lieutenant Roy Massey, Flight Lieutenant MA Ganapathy, and Flying Officer Don Lazarus, recipients of the Vir Chakra, etched their names in history through their valiant actions over Boyra. This pivotal encounter not only demonstrated the courage and skill of Indian aviators but also highlighted the critical role of the Folland Gnat in countering the superior Canadair Sabre Mk 6. 

As we commemorate this day, let us not forget the sacrifices and triumphs of these legendary Indian Braves, who, through their daring feats, contributed to the eventual victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War. Lest we forget the valor that soared high above the skies of Boyra, shaping the course of history and inspiring generations to come.