Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke, a Vir Chakra awardee and decorated veteran of the 1965 Indo-Pak War, passed away on Friday at Base Hospital in New Delhi.
The Indian Air Force paid tribute to Cooke, recalling his courage during the 1965 war and his “legendary dogfight” over Kalaikunda in West Bengal.
IAF Recalls ‘Legendary Dogfight’ Over Kalaikunda
In a post on X, the Indian Air Force expressed condolences over the passing of Cooke and remembered him as a war hero whose actions during the 1965 conflict remain part of Indian military aviation history.
The IAF described the Kalaikunda air battle as a “masterclass in aggressive air combat and unwavering resolve”, highlighting Cooke’s courage and tactical skill.
Cooke was awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, for his role in the air battle over Kalaikunda during an air attack launched from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, on September 7, 1965.
Cooke Shot Down PAF Sabre Jet
According to his gallantry award citation, Cooke shot down a Pakistan Air Force Sabre jet during the 1965 war.
He was flying a Hawker Hunter fighter aircraft on combat air patrol with his wingman, Flying Officer Subodh Chandra Mamgain, when they encountered the second raid by Pakistani aircraft over the airfield.
The two pilots faced a force reportedly three times their size and engaged the attacking aircraft.
The action was described in accounts of the battle as significant to the subsequent course of the war, particularly in the eastern theatre.
Vir Chakra For Gallantry
The IAF said Cooke received the Vir Chakra for his “conspicuous gallantry, tactical brilliance, and disregard to personal safety”.
His wartime service and the Kalaikunda engagement became a notable part of his military record.
Cooke later settled in Australia after retiring from the Indian Air Force. According to a report cited by The Tribune, he had returned to India to attend an event organised by his former unit, 14 Squadron.
His death marks the passing of a decorated veteran whose wartime service continues to be remembered by the Indian Air Force.