Salim Baig Mirza
Squadron leader Salim Baig Mirza is a retired fighter pilot of the Pakistan Air Force, renowned for his aerial combat achievements during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. He is credited with shooting down two Indian Air Force aircraft during the conflict and was awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat for his gallantry.
Early life and education
Salim Baig Mirza joined the Pakistan Air Force Academy in August 1961 as part of the 36th GD(P) course. He was selected for advanced training in the United States, where he flew the T-37 and T-33 aircraft at Laredo Air Force Base, Texas, and later trained on the F-86 Sabre at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
Military career
Upon returning to Pakistan in 1964, Baig was posted to No. 15 Squadron at PAF Base Sargodha. He participated in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, flying operational missions and witnessing his first aerial combat during this conflict.
In the lead-up to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Baig was serving as an instructor pilot at the PAF Academy in Risalpur. In October 1971, he was attached to No. 26 Squadron, based at PAF Base Peshawar, flying the F-86 Sabre.
On 4 December 1971, following a challenging overnight journey from Lahore to Peshawar due to wartime travel restrictions, Baig arrived at his squadron eager to engage in combat. That morning, PAF Base Peshawar was attacked by IAF Hawker Hunters. Baig and his wingman, Flight Lieutenant Khalid Razzak, scrambled in response. During the ensuing dogfight, Baig successfully shot down an IAF Hunter over Peshawar.
Later in the war, Baig led an escort mission for a formation of four F-86 Sabres targeting Srinagar Air Base. During this mission, he engaged and shot down a Folland Gnat piloted by Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, who was posthumously awarded India's highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra.
Legacy
Wing Commander Salim Baig Mirza is remembered for his flying skills and bravery. His actions during the 1971 war are celebrated within the PAF, and he is regarded as a legendary figure among Pakistani fighter pilots.
In September 2024, Baig shared his wartime experiences during a guest lecture titled "From the Cockpit: Reflections from the PAF’s Past for the Future" at the Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS) in Lahore. He discussed the evolution of the PAF and its strategic advancements over the decades.