Wg Cdr SK Jayaswal was commissioned as a fighter pilot in Jun 72. He has more than 3300 hours of accident free flying on fighter aircraft to his credit. He is in command of a MiG-27 Squadron since May 91.

As Commanding Officer, Wg Cdr Jayaswal has been leading the combat unit from the front. He devoted himself to the operational combat training of the pilots. His systematic approach to armament training resulted in excellent performance of the Sqn in the annual air to ground armament firing meet of the Western Air Command where the Sqn was adjudged the best.

His professional ability and conduct has been a source of inspiration to all his subordinates. He motivated his officers and men in the most competent manner to form a well-knit combat team. This showed results when the unit, under his leadership, attained the highest ever marks given by Directorate of Air Staff Inspection Team to any unit in the IAF.

For his professional competence and exceptional devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal to Wg Cdr SK Jayaswal.

Air Commodore Sanjay Kumar Jayaswal VM (13134) F (P) was commissioned on 24 Jun 72 as a fighter pilot. In 31 years of distinguished service he has held several important command and staff appointments that include Directing Staff (DS) at Tactics and Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) and Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Flying Inspector in Dte of Air Staff Inspection (DSAI), Commanding Officer of a fighter Squadron and Air Attaché in High Commission of India at Islamabad (Pakistan). He was awarded VM in 1994. Air Cmde SK Jayaswal was appointed Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station, Halwara on 03 Sep 2001. On taking over, he faced the challenge of ensuring high availability of an ageing aircraft of the three fighter squadrons based in the Station. He studied the situation thoroughly, introduced innovative measures to achieve this task even in the face of uncertainty in availability of spares, and limited manpower. He also ensured that other supporting equipment and infrastructure were maintained to a higher standard and serviceability. Under his guidance and leadership the Station was awarded the trophy for best Station in Maintenance in WAC for the year 2002.

In Dec 2001, at the outset of 'Op Prakaram' a large number of aircraft and personnel, over and above the existing war plans were inducted into the Station. The Station, under his leadership and guidance, ensured smooth, safe and efficient induction inspite of the adverse weather conditions. All additional Squadrons were accommodated and were fully operational in the shortest possible time. His clear vision, articulation of IAF goals, and transparency in functioning transformed the Station working culture, fostering an environment of trust, well being and professional pride. The entire period of 'Op Parakarm' and thereafter was marked by exceptional morale, camaraderie and offensive spirit, despite the harsh conditions. This was aptly recognized, when the Station was awarded the Best overall in WAC for the year 2002.

Air Commodore Sanjay Kumar Jayaswal VM has, thus, distinguished service of an exceptional order.