Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya, fondly known as “Tabby,” is a name synonymous with courage, skill, and sacrifice in the annals of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Born on 24 December 1932, in Coorg, Karnataka, he was the son of Dr. Ajjamada Bopayya. From a young age, he harboured a dream of becoming a pilot, a dream that would eventually lead him to become a legend.
Commissioned into the IAF in 1954, Devayya quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional fighter pilot. He was part of the 64th Pilots’ Course and joined the prestigious flying stream, showcasing a relentless pursuit of excellence. After being promoted to Flight Lieutenant in 1959, he became a fighter pilot instructor at the Air Force Flying College (AFFC), a rare feat within five years of service, illustrating his exceptional abilities and commitment. He married Ms. Sundari, and they had two daughters, Smitha and Preetha. By 1965, Devayya had reached the rank of Squadron Leader and was posted to the 1st Squadron at Adampur Air Force Station, Punjab, shortly before the Indo-Pakistan War.
During the 1965 war, the 1st Squadron, known as The Tigers, was tasked with defending the Punjab sector. As part of the IAF’s strategy, a daring air strike was planned on the heavily defended Sargodha Air Base in Pakistan. Although initially designated as a standby pilot, Devayya joined the mission, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to duty. On 7th September 1965, during the attack, Devayya encountered an F-104 Starfighter, a superior aircraft, piloted by Flt Lt Amjad Hussain of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Despite being attacked and his own aircraft damaged, Devayya’s flying skill and experience allowed him to evade multiple attacks.
In an act of extraordinary courage, Devayya counter-attacked the Starfighter, severely damaging it, causing it to crash and forcing Hussain to eject. However, Devayya’s Mystere IVa was also critically damaged, and he crashed deep inside enemy territory. He was initially declared Missing in Action (MIA), and later, Killed in Action (KIA), as his fate remained unknown. It was only later through a book written by British writer, John Fricker, commissioned by the PAF, that the IAF learned the truth about his valour. Fricker detailed the dogfight and how Devayya shot down the F-104 despite the damage to his aircraft.
The book revealed that villagers found Devayya’s body near Kot Naka village and buried it. In 1988, 23 years after his death, Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), India’s second-highest gallantry award, making him the only IAF officer to receive the honour posthumously. His wife, Mrs. Devayya, accepted the award. This recognition came about due to the perseverance of his commanding officer who pieced together the events of Devayya’s last flight.
Sqn Ldr A.B. Devayya’s bravery continues to inspire generations. A private bus stand circle in Madikeri was named after him on 7 September 2009, and a bronze statue was erected in his memory. In 2023, the statue was damaged in a suspected conspiracy, but this incident has only highlighted the enduring impact of his heroism. In January 2025, a film titled Sky Force was released, depicting the attack on Sargodha, with Veer Pahariya portraying the role of Sqn Ldr Devayya, further cementing his legacy in the popular imagination.
Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya’s story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women of the Indian Armed Forces, and his legacy continues to be honoured and remembered by the nation.
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