Cast: Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Nimrat Kaur, Sara Ali Khan, Sharad Kelkar

Directors: Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani

Rating: ***

India has witnessed countless brave soldiers who have laid down their lives to protect the nation. While many of their heroic tales remain untold, recent war biopics have shed light on the sacrifices of these unsung warriors.

One such compelling narrative is Sky Force, which showcases India’s first retaliatory airstrike during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. The film not only highlights the strategic attack on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase but also honours the extraordinary courage of an Indian Air Force officer who played a pivotal role in its success.

The Plot: A Mission That Changed History

The movie unfolds in 1971 when Pakistani Air Force officers launch a sudden attack on an Indian airbase over the Kashmir conflict. During India’s counteroffensive, they capture a Pakistani pilot, Ahmed (played by Sharad Kelkar). Wing Commander K.O. Ahuja (portrayed by Akshay Kumar and inspired by O.P. Taneja VrC) interrogates Ahmed and discovers that he was honoured for assassinating an Indian Air Force officer during the 1965 Sargodha strike.

As the narrative transitions to a flashback from 1965, we meet Squadron Wing Commander K.O. Ahuja at the Adampur airbase alongside his dedicated team, including T. Vijaya (fictionalized version of Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya MVC, played by Veer Pahariya).

Tabby, as Vijaya is fondly called, is known for his rule-breaking tendencies but is also a highly skilled pilot with an unyielding patriotic spirit. His unwavering dedication to the nation makes him willing to embrace death with a smile. Ahuja, who shares a deep bond with Tabby, sees a reflection of his late brother Monu in him, while Tabby regards Ahuja as his mentor.

Rising Threats and the Need for an Offensive Strategy

Tensions escalate when David Lawrence (played by Manish Chaudhari), Ahuja’s commanding officer, reveals that the United States has supplied Pakistan with 12 advanced Starstriker fighter jets, significantly strengthening their air power. Intelligence reports suggest that Pakistan is planning a major offensive against India. Lawrence orders Ahuja and Tabby to conduct a reconnaissance mission, allowing them to cross enemy lines at their own risk.

During their aerial surveillance, they capture photographic evidence of Pakistan’s military buildup but face heavy enemy fire. Despite the dangers, Tabby successfully gathers crucial intelligence.

Upon returning to base, Ahuja urges Lawrence to take preemptive action against Pakistan, warning that an attack is imminent. However, the Indian government, committed to peace, refuses to authorize a first strike.

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965: India Strikes Back

Pakistan takes advantage of India’s restraint and launches a devastating nighttime air raid on an Indian airbase, knowing that India lacks the technology for nocturnal combat. The attack inflicts heavy casualties and damages critical infrastructure, leaving the Indian Air Force with no choice but to retaliate.

With the government’s approval, Ahuja and his team devise a counteroffensive targeting Pakistan’s vital airbases and their prized Starstriker jets. While strategizing, Ahuja closely analyzes a speech by Pakistan’s Prime Minister and deduces that the advanced aircraft are stationed at the highly fortified Sargodha airbase rather than near the border. Thus, the mission Sky Force is born.

Executing this mission poses a significant challenge, as Indian fighter jets lack the fuel capacity to complete a round trip from Adampur to Sargodha. Ahuja assembles four attack teams but, following Lawrence’s orders, keeps Tabby on standby rather than in the core group.

A Hero’s Unparalleled Sacrifice

Despite the daunting odds, Sky Force is executed with precision, dealing a severe blow to Pakistan’s air capabilities. The mission is deemed a success as all designated officers return safely to base. However, Ahuja soon realizes that Tabby, who had independently ventured beyond enemy lines, made a crucial, self-sacrificing move that ensured the operation’s triumph.

With Tabby now missing in action, Ahuja embarks on a relentless quest to uncover his fate and the decisive role he played in securing India’s first aerial victory. What happened to Tabby, and how did his actions shape the outcome of the war? To witness this emotional and high-stakes drama unfold, Sky Force must be experienced on the big screen.

Direction, Visuals, and Performances: A Stellar War Drama

Directors Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani masterfully craft an engaging and emotionally charged war film. The screenplay is taut, and the aerial combat sequences are breathtaking, making for an immersive cinematic experience. The movie’s 125-minute runtime ensures a fast-paced narrative that never loses momentum.

A special mention must be given to the VFX team, whose impeccable execution enhances the realism of the intense dogfights and explosive battle scenes. Editor A. Sreekar Prasad keeps the storytelling crisp, ensuring that every frame contributes to the gripping plot.

Akshay Kumar once again delivers a powerful performance in a uniformed role, embodying the essence of leadership, courage, and emotion. His portrayal of Wing Commander Ahuja adds depth to the film, making him the emotional anchor of the story.

Veer Pahariya, making his debut, is a revelation as T. Vijaya. His effortless charisma, combined with his fearless and rebellious persona, makes his character instantly memorable. His performance oscillates between innocence and unwavering determination, leaving a lasting impact.

Supporting cast members Sara Ali Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Manish Chaudhari, and Sharad Kelkar deliver commendable performances, each adding a layer of authenticity to the film.

Sky Force: A Cinematic Tribute to India’s Bravehearts

Blending real-life heroism with cinematic grandeur, Sky Force pays homage to the Indian Air Force’s fearless pilots and their unparalleled sacrifices. By bringing to life the events of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, the film stands as a testament to India’s resilience and determination in defending its sovereignty.

At its core, the film celebrates the brotherhood between Wing Commander K.O. Ahuja and T. Vijaya, two warriors bound by duty and honor. Produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik under Maddock Films, in association with Jio Studios, Sky Force raises the bar for Bollywood war dramas, setting a new benchmark in the genre.

For those who cherish gripping war sagas infused with patriotism, Sky Force is a must-watch cinematic experience that will leave you inspired and awestruck.