In 1971, Mehmood volunteered to go East Pakistan to participate in the Bangladesh-Pakistani War of 1971. In this conflict, Mehmood was sent to Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka Airport) to lead an operation against Indian-led Bangladeshi forces. The airport was heavily guarded and it was considered a no-fly zone. Mehmood commanded the Shaheen Company, 1st commando battalion and his company saw heavy fighting in the airport. After 34 hours, the Shaheen Company gained control of the airport and its surrounding areas. Both sides had suffered heavy casualties and the airport was nearly destroyed in the battle.