The IAF recalled its contribution in 'Operation Meghdoot' 40 years ago when its tactical and strategic airlifters and key helicopters had ferried men and material to "dizzying heights" in Siachen, the world's highest battlefield.

The Indian Army marked four decades of its presence on the strategically-significant Siachen glacier. 

Operation Meghdoot was launched on April 13, 1984, when the Indian Army and Indian Air Force had advanced to the Siachen glacier to secure the heights dominating the northern Ladakh region, officials said.

Playing an "irreplaceable role" in this effort, IAF's tactical and strategic airlifters, AN-12s, AN-32s and IL-76s transported stores and troops and air-dropped supplies to high altitude airfields, from where Mi-17, Mi-8, Chetak and Cheetah helicopters "ferried men and material to dizzying heights on the glacier, far above the limits set by the helicopter manufacturers," a senior official said.