Squadron Leader Shantanu Basu was a well-trained helicopter pilot of the Indian Air Force. In 2006-07, he was serving with 114 HU unit based at Air Force Station in Leh. The unit was operating a Cheetah helicopter, generally used for ferrying of personnel and logistical support to far-flung areas.
| Service Number | 22947 F(P) |
| Rank | Squadron Leader |
| Unit | 114 HU, AF |
| Award | Shaurya Chakra |
| Date of Martyrdom | 11th April 2007 |
On 11th April 2007, Squadron Leader Shantanu Basu was tasked with an air logistical support sortie to Amar helipad situated at Siachen Glacier. Squadron Leader Shantanu Basu along with Flight Lieutenant Amit Sharma took off from the Air Force base as planned and reached the post within the stipulated time. The sortie was uneventful till the final approach. However, as the tailwinds were significant, an overshoot had to be initiated on the short finals. The helicopter experienced a sudden loss of power and height after crossing the helipad. The pilots maintained their cool but unfortunately, the aircraft failed to respond to the emergency actions by the aircrew and continued to lose height. Both the pilots courageously decided to attempt force landing across the AGPL (Actual Ground Position Line). However, due to the absence of a suitable force landing field, the helicopter crashed. In this crash, both Squadron Leader Shantanu Basu and Flight Lieutenant Amit Sharma could not survive.
Squadron Leader Shantanu Basu was a true air warrior and he was awarded ‘Shaurya Chakra’ posthumously for displaying exceptional
