Group Captain Rakesh Yadav (12809) AE (M) has been posted as a Chief Engineering Officer of a major flying base since 30 October 1995.

Throughout his tenure the fighter serviceability has been maintained above the required figure, resulting in substantial increase in quantum of flying. During this period, the helicopter squadron was also reorganised with an efficient Tech Flight and the helicopter serviceability was sustained in the face of numerous constraints. Group Captain Yadav innovatively developed a Test Rig for cleaning and flow rate check of restrictors of aircraft main fuel pumps. His dedicated efforts resulted in significant impro vement in the quality of maintenance practices.

Group Captain R Yadav also improved serviceability and condition of refuellers, aircraft specialist vehicles, Safety vehicles and common user vehicles. His deep involvement led to improvisation of windshields of CFT and recovery of electro pneumatic valves locally. Additionally, a total saving of Rs 1.2 Lakhs was achieved by keeping all three crash fire tenders operationally fit.

For distinguished service of a high order and dedication to service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Rakesh Yadav.

Air Commodore Rakesh Yadav (12809), VSM, AE (M) was commissioned on 05 July 71 in the Engineering Branch of IAF. He is one of the most experienced engineering officers on MiG-21 fighter aircraft. He is Russian trained on the MiG-25 reconnaissance aircraft and an alumnus of the prestigious Defence Services Staff College. During 34 years of distinguished service, he had held many important appointments and is presently Principal Director Engineering (A) at Air Headquarters.

Air Cmde Yadav, during his postings to MiG 21 Squadrons, has been member of the numerous courts of inquiries investigating into aircraft accidents and incidents, wherein he suggested appropriate remedial measures which substantially improved aircraft reliability. His MiG background particularly worked well during this tenure as the Chief Engineering Officer of the vital frontline airbase at Pathankot. For continuing excellence in the MiG fleet, Air Cmde Yadav was conferred the Vishisht Seva Medal in 1999.

Air Cmde Yadav was also the Station Commander of the premier MiG 23/MiG 27 Type Training Institute. He introduced radical changes in the teaching culture and introduced new publications for the benefits of trainees. As Principal Director of Maintenance Inspection at Air Headquarters, he spearheaded the important inspection of numerous maintenance and ground training institutes and identified areas, which improved the maintenance culture across the country.

In his present appointment as Principal Director of Engineering A, Air Cmde Yadav oversees the maintenance of the entire Russian fighter fleet. His singular effort in timely and wholly resolving numerous issues pertaining to aircraft modifications, concessions, spares and life extensions has resulted in increased availability and reliability of the otherwise aging MiG fleet. His persistent follow-up to resolve pending and new maintenance issues with Russians, and to establish requisite infrastructure in field units, has enabled smooth induction and effective exploitation of the newly inducted multi role combat Sukhois fighters and the upgraded MiG 21s. His individual attention has reorganized workspace and improved office environment, thereby improving functional efficiency of the Directorate.

Air Commodore Rakesh Yadav, VSM has thus rendered distinguished service of exceptional order.