Sqn Ldr K Malik has been on the posted strength of one of the Squadrons since 13 Feb 89. He is fully Ops Pilot, an A-2 QFI and FCL with 600 hrs on type and 2400 hrs of total service flying.

On 05 Mar 91, he got airborne for a combat sorties as a number four member in the formation. While climbing through 350 meters above the ground level, he heard a loud thud and the aircraft engine flamed out. He gave an R/T call indicating that he would be ejecting, and gently turned away from the populated city limits. Even he was preparing for ejection, he analysed and concluded that the height and speed combination was just sufficient for attempting a safe relight. The relight attempt was successful and he safely landed the aircraft. After landing checks revealed extensive damage to air intake, cone, lip and engine.

The whole process of engine flame out to the relight of the engine took place in a short span of 30 seconds. Even a delay of 3-4 Seconds in taking a decision or in carrying out the relight procedure would have cost the service a valuable aircraft worth crores of rupees and invaluable human lives. All through this critical and very dangerous situation, Sqn Ldr Malik remained calm. He quickly and correctly assessed the implications and handled the emergency in the most professional manner.

Sqn Ldr Malik displayed extremely high degree of professionalism and airmanship which is worthy of emulation by all aircrew. For excellent presence of mind, professional skill and devotion to duty, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr K Malik.

Wing Commander Kuldeep Malik was commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on 28 Dec 77. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor holding an A-2 instructional category and a Fighter Combat Leader. As a young officer, he was a member of the Thunderbolts, the IAF's Formation Aerobatic Team. He is a graduate of the Command and Staff College, Bracknell, UK and has served on the Directing Staff at the Defence Services Staff College. He was awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1992.

In Jun 96, a decision was taken to revive the IAF's formation aerobatic team to mark the Golden Jubilee of India's Independence. Wg Cdr Malik was specially selected to form and lead the aerobatic team with Six Kiran MK II aircraft. The new aerobatic team, known as Surya-Kiran, was scheduled to make its public debut on 08 Oct 96. This left approximately three months in which to train and achieve the required high standard before the Air Force Day parade. Under the able leadership of Wg Cdr Malik, the aerobatic team began from scratch and eventually produced a magnificent display in front of highly appreciative audience. The credit for moulding his members from a mere cohesive formation into a scintillating six aircraft team was deservedly Wg Cdr Malik's.

For distinguished services of a high order, the President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Kuldeep Malik.