Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar is all set to kick off the new year with his action-packed film Sky Force, co-starring newcomer Veer Pahariya. Ever since the trailer dropped, fans have been buzzing about the movie’s plot and whether it is based on real events. The short answer: Yes, Sky Force draws its inspiration from the Indian Air Force’s daring retaliatory strike on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War—often cited as India’s first and one of its deadliest air strikes.
The Real Incident Behind Sky Force
The film depicts the retaliatory attack by the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase. Historically, in the first week of September 1965, Pakistani forces launched attacks on several Indian airbases, including Pathankot, Adampur, and Halwara. In response, the IAF carried out a counter-attack on Sargodha, located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. At the time, Sargodha was regarded as one of the most fortified airbases in Asia. Despite the formidable defenses, Indian pilots executed a well-coordinated strike that inflicted significant damage on the base.
On September 1, 1965, then Chief of the Air Staff, Marshal of the Indian Air Force (MIAF) Arjan Singh, gave the go-ahead for full-fledged air operations against Pakistani forces. The IAF’s attacks that day destroyed or disabled several Pakistani tanks, anti-aircraft guns, and vehicles, marking a pivotal moment in India’s military history.
The Story of Squadron Leader Ajjamada B. Devayya
One of the most remarkable tales from the Sargodha attack is that of Sq. Ldr. Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya, who was declared missing in action and later presumed killed. He showcased extraordinary valor by engaging the enemy against overwhelming odds. Devayya was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra—making it a unique distinction in IAF history. His story remained relatively unknown for decades, only gaining recognition years after the war.
In Sky Force, Veer Pahariya steps into the role of Sq. Ldr. Devayya, bringing to life this lesser-known yet awe-inspiring chapter of Indian military history. Akshay Kumar portrays Group Captain O.P. Taneja, a fictionalized composite character who leads the mission planning and execution.
What the Trailer Reveals
The recently launched trailer highlights the high-stakes environment of aerial combat in the mid-1960s. Viewers get a glimpse of:
- Thrilling aerial dogfights
- Tense ground operations and planning sessions in IAF control rooms
- Powerful dialogues emphasizing patriotism, sacrifice, and courage
The teaser also sets the tone for a gripping narrative, with glimpses of Veer Pahariya’s determined look as Sq. Ldr. Devayya and Akshay Kumar’s on-screen leadership as Group Captain Taneja. Adding further star power, Nimrat Kaur and Sara Ali Khan are also part of the cast, portraying pivotal roles that underscore the contributions of various unsung heroes behind the scenes.
Bringing an Untold Story to Light
According to director duo Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Anil Kapoor, Sky Force aims to shine a spotlight on a lesser-discussed operation that cemented the Indian Air Force’s global reputation for skill and bravery. While several war films have depicted the 1965 Indo-Pak War, the specific mission against the Sargodha base remains relatively unexplored in mainstream cinema.
Producer Dinesh Vijan of Maddock Films shared that the team conducted meticulous research, referring to historical archives and consulting defense experts to ensure authenticity. The result is a film that blends large-scale action set pieces with the emotional weight of personal sacrifice.
Release Details and More
Sky Force is scheduled for a January 2025 release. As the first major action film of the year, it is expected to attract both history buffs and Akshay Kumar fans. Given Akshay’s track record with patriotic features—like Airlift and Kesari—anticipation runs high for a riveting retelling of India’s first airstrike. Meanwhile, audiences are eager to watch Veer Pahariya’s big-screen debut, especially since he’ll be portraying such a significant historical figure.
Why You Should Watch Sky Force
- Authentic War Drama: Based on India’s real, high-stakes 1965 retaliatory strike.
- Inspirational Biopic Elements: Honors the forgotten heroism of Sq. Ldr. Ajjamada Devayya.
- Star-Studded Cast: Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Nimrat Kaur, and Sara Ali Khan bring both star power and compelling performances.
- Patriotic Theme: Resonates with audiences who enjoy true stories of bravery and sacrifice.
Yes, Sky Force is undeniably rooted in real wartime history—the 1965 attack on Sargodha airbase. By focusing on a mission that tested the mettle of the Indian Air Force, the film seeks to honor the bravery of pilots who risked their lives for the country. It stands as a testament to India’s military prowess and the indomitable spirit of the men and women in uniform. If you are a fan of historical war dramas, patriotic films, or simply compelling storytelling, Sky Force promises to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2025.
