air power in the indian context Tempest over Kashmir Valley, 1948 The ability of the IAF to rapidly project military force and influence statecraft has become increasingly evident post-independence. The speedy aerial reinforcement of Srinagar during the 1947-48 conflict with Pakistan was the first visible exploitation of air power by India to further national strategy. Similarly, the aerial evacuation of King Tribhuvan of Nepal in 1950 and his subsequent restoration to the Poonch: Refugees being evacuated in 12 Squadron Dakotas 7