Flight Lieutenant Alfred Tyrone Cooke, a Vir Chakra awardee of the Indian Air Force, died on 18 September 2026 at Base Hospital, New Delhi, at the age of 87. He was known for an air engagement during the 1965 Indo-Pak War over Kalaikunda in West Bengal, where he flew a Hawker Hunter against Pakistani Sabre jets.
Alfred Tyrone Cooke and the Vir Chakra
The Vir Chakra is India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award, after the Param Vir Chakra and the Maha Vir Chakra. Alfred Tyrone Cooke received the Vir Chakra on 7 September 1965 for courage and tactical skill during aerial combat.
1965 Indo-Pak War and Kalaikunda Air Battle
The 1965 Indo-Pak War was fought between India and Pakistan in September 1965. During the Kalaikunda air battle, Cooke engaged six Pakistani Sabre jets attacking the airfield and shot down one aircraft while damaging another.
Indian Air Force Service and No. 14 Squadron
Cooke served in No. 14 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, which is also known as the “Bulls”. He retired from the Indian Air Force in 1968 and later settled in Australia.
Important Facts for Exams
- The Vir Chakra was instituted in 1950 and is awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
- The Hawker Hunter was a British jet fighter used by several air forces during the Cold War period.
- No. 14 Squadron of the Indian Air Force is nicknamed the “Bulls”.
- Cooke donated his Vir Chakra medal to No. 14 Squadron in 2016.
Later Life and Medal Donation
After retirement, Alfred Tyrone Cooke lived in Australia and remained connected with his former squadron. He donated his Vir Chakra medal to No. 14 Squadron in 2016.
