The Srinagar-based MiG-21 Bison Squadron, of which Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was a part of during the dogfight against Pakistani aircraft in February, received a new patch on their uniform to commemorate the aerial duel.
On 27 February 2019, Wing Commander Abhinandan’s MiG 21 was shot down over Pakistani territory while intercepting their aircraft which had entered Indian territory.
The IAF had also claimed that the Wing Commander brought down a Pakistani F-16 before going down, which Pakistan denies.
The new patch showcases two texts reading AMRAAM DODGERS and Falcon Slayers, which indicates the AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles dodged the IAF squadron.
The patch also depicts a MIG-21 Bison in the foreground and a red-coloured F-16 in the background under crosshairs.
Speaking to The Indian Express, an IAF spokesperson said that it is a common practice among pilots to have special patches on their uniform as they instil a "sense of pride and acheivement."
Earlier in May, Wing Commander Abhinandan returned to duty and was seen in a video, being applauded by fellow pilots.
(With inputs from The Indian Express)
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