SOURCE: AFI
Exercise Yudh Abhyas, a joint military exercise between India and the United States, is currently underway from September 9th to 22nd, 2024. One of the key participants in this exercise is the 25th Fighter Squadron, the only A-10C unit within the Pacific Air Forces command that is stationed in India. This squadron, known as the “Assam Draggins,” has a fascinating history that is deeply intertwined with the nation’s past.
Established in 1941 as the 25th Pursuit Squadron, the unit first saw combat over Southeast Asia in 1942. A significant milestone occurred on January 11, 1942, when the squadron embarked on the SS President Coolidge, becoming part of the initial deployment of US forces to leave the United States mainland after the declaration of war. By late March, the 25th Pursuit Squadron had arrived in Karachi, India, and commenced wartime operations.
One of the most notable aspects of their service was their involvement in missions over “the Hump,” the eastern end of the Himalayas. The squadron’s first aerial combat mission over this treacherous terrain took place on September 25, 1942. The challenging nature of these flights, characterized by long and arduous journeys, led to the squadron adopting the nickname “Assam Draggins.” The term “Draggin” was a reference to the grueling missions over the hump, often described by pilots as “Our Ass am Dragging.”
The 25th Fighter Squadron’s presence in India during Exercise Yudh Abhyas serves as a poignant reminder of the historical ties between the two nations. The squadron’s legacy, forged during the turbulent years of World War II, continues to resonate today as they participate in joint military exercises aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing interoperability.