Crest: The sight that initials fear and panic; the sight that sends everyone scrambling for refuge; the sight that sends in grim signals of terror; Sharks, the demons of the seas are epitomes of 'Power and Agression'. They represent brutal strength and unihibited ferociousness and are undoubtedly the most feared creatures of the sea world. It is for these reasons and for many more that a Fighter Squadron like ours is named 'The Sharks'.

A Shark , besides being the agressive fish that it is, also unique in many of its traits. Unlike other large fish, it does not move around in schools and most often seen alone or in pairs. It reflects the reflects self dependent nature that a Shark possesses, the ability to be entirely on its own which is one of the essential attributes a Fighter Pilot must have. The fact that Sharks are also seen in pairs brings forth the fact that it does possess the ability to work as a part of a team, an asset that we have infused into ourselves as the 'Wigman Spirit'.

Sharks never swim in murky and shallow water and their workfield is in the cleaner and deeper parts of the oceans. When we call ourselves the Sharks, we believe in being like them in toto functioning in an clean working environment and when necessary; perhaps making a foray close to the shores to draw blood and strike terror. Like the Sharks that fear not the vastness of the deep blue waters, we fear not the vastness and mystique of the high blue skies, Professionalism, Power and Aggression is what we represent.

Brief History: 52 Sqn AF, the youngest Squadron of the Indian Air Force, was formed on 01 Jan 86 at 16 Wing, Hashimara. Wg Cdr GM Viswanathan VM was the first Commanding Officer of "The Sharks" equipped with the T-77 ac. The primary role of the Squadron is Air defence and the secondary role is ground attack. However, during peace time the Squadron is given the additional responsibility of conducting MOFT syllabus of young pilots.

The Sharks, during their short span of 12 years have gained appreciation for their professional approach and sound results. The Squadron has the distinction of winning the IF rolling trophy in its very first year of formation and continues to sustain its impressive performance.

The Squadron moved to Bagdogra during Jan 90 under the command of Wg Cdr AD Chibbar where it continued to perform its primary, secondary and peacetime role.

On 01 Nov 96 the Sqn moved to 14 Wing at Chabua where it is presently located. The squdron is Commanded by Wg Cdr SS Soman.

Role in Operation

Being the youngest Squadron of the IAF, it did not get an opportunity to take part in any operations. However during the Op alert in 1987, the Squadron operated a detachement from Srinagar from where it was to undertake OAS missions.

Achievements

The Squadron was declared the "best Supersonic Fighter Sqn" for 1989-90. It was also adjudged the "best Fighter Squadron" in EAC for 1993-94 and 1995-96.

Conclusion

The Sqn has been tasked to carry our training of MOFT pilots since its inception. "The Sharks" have since taken up the challenge year to ensure timely completion of task without compromising on safety or quality. It is to the credit of the Sharks that they ensure that the frontline fighter Sqns are continuously fed with well trained pilots. Apart from this the Sharks are always ready to undertake any operational task in the defence of the country.

Locations and Aircrafts flown