Squadron Leader Sunderraman Neelakantan was posted to Tactics Development Establishment on 19 Dec 88 to undergo Flight Combat Leader Course.

On 14 Feb 1989, Sqn Ldr Neelakantan took off in a MiG-21 aircraft for a training sortie. After 18 minutes of uneventful flying, when the speed was 850 Kph and height 4.5 Km, he felt the aircraft rock violently out of control. He noted that the main hydraulic system has also failed. Determined to recover the aircraft, he applied himself to the task and was able to maintain control of the aircraft only below 3 Km with significant left rudder pressure only at speeds below 500 Kph. Together with the loss of power, he was also denied the use of flaps and air brakes due to hydraulic failure. Despite the multiple emergencies, Sqn Ldr Neelakantan displaying exceptional skill, executed a flawless descending circuit terminating in a direct flapless approach and landing.

For displaying exceptional flying outstanding professionalism, judgment and confidence, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Sqn Ldr Sunderraman Neelakantan.

Wing Commander Sunderraman Neelakantan (15184) F (P) is in command of 1 Squadron AF and was operating from 7 Wing, AF wef 26 May 99 for 'Op Safed Sagar'.

The officer is a true professional, who works hard and runs his Sqn effectively. This professionalism is evident in the manner in which the unit goes about doing its allotted tasks. The Sqn was inducted and relocated at short notice on deployment. This task was accomplished smoothly, and since then, the Sqn. has been able to meet all operational tasks given to it. This involved rapid and frequent role changes, and launching of missions at extremely short notices.

The officer displays total dedication and devotion to duty, and takes pride in whatever he does. He is a bold and dynamic Commanding Officer, who leads from the front. He managed his manpower and resources effectively in order to conduct round the clock operations. His courage is evident from the fact that within six weeks, he had already flown 47 operational missions. The missions involved provided day/ night fighter escort to our strike formations during 'Op Safed Sager'. Many of these missions were flown in extremely poor/marginal weather conditions, where he also displayed personal flying skills of a high order.

For his professionalism, leadership and courage displayed in the face of the enemy, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Yudh Seva Medal' to Wg Cdr Sunderraman Neelakantan.