The Argentine Air Force opened fire for the first time on June 16, 1955 during the bombing of the Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires, in which government-loyal Gloster Meteors fought rebel planes attempting to assassinate the President in a coup d'état (this plan failed, and instead the rebels bombed the city and the House of Government). In the following September coup, the Air Force supported Perón's government by fighting the coup; initiating combat operations and transporting troops and arms. Only five aircraft defected to the other side. After the "Revolución Libertadora" succeeded and the coup took place, previously mentioned operations ceased and most Air Force workers left the country, including engineer Kurt Tank who left to work in India.