Two Indian Air Force (IAF) Antonov An-32 transport aircraft were recently spotted flying west of New Delhi using the unique call signs 'Rizwan' and 'Hamza'.
These call signs are a direct reference to the popular undercover operatives featured in the blockbuster Bollywood spy-thriller duology Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar.
The unusual flight details were noticed by an open-source aviation tracker, BlackJack! (@B777200F), who observed the aircraft flying with their transponders turned on.
Because there were no publicly available details regarding their final destination after taking off from the capital, the aircraft were likely conducting a routine training sortie.
The use of these cinematic names added an entertaining touch to an otherwise standard military mission.
The Pop Culture Connection
In the Dhurandhar franchise—whose final instalment, Dhurandhar: The Revenge, released in March 2026—Hamza Ali Mazari (played by Ranveer Singh) and Rizwan Shah (played by Mustafa Ahmed) operate as a lethal duo of undercover Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) operatives.In the film's storyline, the two comrades infiltrate the criminal underworld in the Lyari neighbourhood of Karachi, Pakistan, eventually rising to power.
The on-screen chemistry and intense patriotism of the duo became a major highlight for audiences.
Mustafa Ahmed, a well-known fitness trainer who successfully transitioned into acting, recently noted that fans continue to address him as "Rizwan" months after the sequel's release.
The IAF aircrews adopting these names as tactical call signs serves as a subtle nod to the film, merging real-world national defence aviation with recent patriotic pop culture.
The Ageing but Reliable An-32 Workhorse
The Antonov An-32, designed during the Soviet era, has been a crucial asset for the IAF since it was first inducted in the 1980s.The twin-engine turboprop aircraft is heavily utilised for medium tactical transport operations, including carrying troops, dropping cargo, and executing logistics missions.
It is especially valued for its exceptional engine performance in hot and high-altitude environments, making it ideal for supplying remote mountainous regions.
While the An-32 continues to fly regular missions today, the fleet is growing old. The Ministry of Defence is actively working to modernise its tactical airlift capabilities.
The IAF is currently inducting Airbus C-295 aircraft to replace older transport planes, and is evaluating heavier, modern alternatives like the Embraer C-390 Millennium and Lockheed Martin C-130J under the upcoming Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) procurement programme.
Until these modern replacements fully take over, the rugged An-32 remains a familiar sight in Indian skies.
