Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik: The IAF Hero of Operation Sindoor
Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has become a symbol of bravery. He is being remembered for his heroic role in Operation Sindoor. This was a very dangerous air mission against terror groups in Pakistan. One year after the operation, his story of courage continues to inspire the nation.
Squadron Leader Malik flew deep into enemy territory during a midnight strike. He faced many threats but successfully hit terror targets with great precision. For his bravery, he was awarded the Vir Chakra in 2025.
Who is Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik?
Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik comes from Keikhu village. This village is in the Imphal East district of Manipur. He belongs to a Meitei Pangal family. His father is Alhaj Hafizuddin, who is a retired horticulture officer.
Malik joined the Indian Air Force in 2015. He was part of the 195th Flying Course. Because of his hard work, he was promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader in 2021. He is a specialist in deep-strike and air superiority missions. These missions require very fast thinking and exact timing.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik |
| Hometown | Keikhu Village, Imphal East, Manipur |
| Father’s Name | Alhaj Hafizuddin |
| IAF Joining Year | 2015 |
| Flying Course | 195th Flying Course |
| Promotion to Sqn Ldr | 2021 |
| Award | Vir Chakra (2025) |
The Story of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor was started after a sad event in Jammu and Kashmir. Terrorists attacked the Baisaran Valley and killed 26 innocent civilians. To stop these terrorists, the Indian government planned a strike on their bases.
The operation targeted groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen. These groups had terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India became the first country to strike 11 airbases of a country that has nuclear weapons.
A Dangerous Midnight Mission
During Operation Sindoor, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik flew a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet. He was part of a strike formation that did not have any escort planes for protection. It was a midnight mission, which made it even harder.
He had to fly through heavily defended airspace. This area was protected by enemy radar systems, air defense networks, and military surveillance. Malik used low-altitude routes in the dark to avoid being caught by the enemy.
Even though the enemy was tracking him and using electronic tools to stop him, he did not turn back. He stayed calm and released his weapons on the correct targets. He even carried out more attacks in the same area before returning safely.
Recognition and Awards
The Indian government recognized the bravery of the officers involved. Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik was one of nine IAF officers honored for their work in Operation Sindoor. He was awarded the Vir Chakra in 2025.
The official citation for his award praised his “aggressive yet controlled flying.” It also mentioned his ability to stay calm under extreme pressure. He acted as the deputy mission leader during the strike. His leadership helped destroy many heavily guarded terror locations.
Key Facts of the Mission
- Aircraft Used: Sukhoi Su-30MKI
- Mission Type: Unescorted midnight strike
- Threats Faced: Enemy radar, air defense, and electronic countermeasures
- Targets: Terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK
- Role: Deputy Mission Leader
Conclusion
Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik is a true hero of the Indian Air Force. His journey from a small village in Manipur to the cockpit of a Sukhoi Su-30MKI shows great discipline and skill. His role in Operation Sindoor helped protect the country from terror. His story will be remembered for many years as an example of professional aerial warfare.
FAQs
What award did Rizwan Malik receive?
Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik was awarded the Vir Chakra in 2025 for his bravery in Operation Sindoor.
Which aircraft did he fly during the mission?
He flew the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet during the midnight strike.
Why was Operation Sindoor launched?
It was launched after a terror attack in Baisaran Valley, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians.
Where is Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik from?
He is from Keikhu village in the Imphal East district of Manipur.