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.