Crest: The crest of No 5 Squadron Air Force is a fully grown asian wild elephant within a roundal placed directly below the state emblem which is an adaptation from Sarnath Lion Capital of Emperor Ashoka. The mighty tusker with a twisted tail is showing blowing its trumpet before the charge. This majestic tusker symbolises the enormous strength that could be harnessed in order to impart crushing blows to the enemy. The squadron motto is inscribed in the scroll by Sanskrit words "SHAKTI VIJAYETE" which translates into "Strength is Victory".

ERA OF LIBERATOR

The need for a long range heavy bomber capability in the Indian Air Force began to be keenly felt in the later stages of 1947. Against such a requirement, the Royal Air Force offered to supply Avro Lancasters, large no of which were then under disposal at the end of World War II. Instead, with a keen sence of responsibility and an energy borne out of pride and necessity, the IAF came out with a bold, and in retrospect, wise decision, to reclaim B-24 Liberator aircraft that had in retrospect, wise decision to reclaim B-24 Liberator aircraft that had served during the war in the East. Between the pioneers of the IAF and HAL, over 40 Liberators were finally refurnised and overhauled and the first of these donned IAF colour on 02 Nov 48 when the IAF formed its first bomber Squadron. No 5 Squadron crest, the "TUSKER" was to be as appropriate to its role and strength as any emblem can envisage.

INDUCTION OF CANBERRA

On 1st September 1957 the "TUSKERS" became the first IAF Squadron to re-equip on the modern Canberra jet bomber aircraft. The TUSKERS pioneered the development and operational expansion of the Canberra fleet in the IAF.

President's Colour Presentation ~ With such a glorious past and unparalled record of bravery in war it is in the fitness of things that the "TUSKERS" should be the first bomber unit to be awarded the President's Standard. 5 Squadron was awarded the Presidential colours on 09 Apr 75 by the Rastrapati late Shri Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.

INDUCTION OF JAGUAR

In the ten years after 1971, the Canberra maintained their sterling reputation and the 'TUSKERS' their elan, but in the face of growing electronic wizardry and proliferation of sophisticated air defences, it was necessary to induct an aircraft that had the ability of flying very low and fast, penetrate layers of air defences, deliver a lethal punch as accurately as possible and return safely to base. Thus on 01 Aug 1981 the ' TUSKERS' re-equipped on the modern and lethal Jaguar Strike aircraft under the command of then Wing Commander JS Sisodia who is now the Commodore Commandant of the Squadron.

Op-Pawan ~ In Jul 88, the Tuskers undertook the most sacred task in defence of human rights across the Indian Borders by participation in Op-pawan in support of IPKF in Sri Lanka. They flew highest number of reconnaissance missions.

'TUSKERS' continue to fly the Jaguars till date and are over ready to deliver their lethal and bearable punch to the enemy with utmost precision. Having mastered the moral and human qualities of valour and sacrifice, Tuskers will always live upto its sky high traditions with whatever weapon system entrusted to them from time to time.

The 'TUSKERS' complete 50 years of glorious service to the nation on 02 Nov 98. Their men and machines are fully geared to face any challenge and defend the indian sky. The squadron lives up the tradition of imparting crushing blows to the enemy as their motto says "Shakti Vijayete" (Strength is Victory).

For details visit : indianairforce.nic.in