Squadron Leader Nirmal Singh Jamwal (17156) Flying (Pilot), from the fighter stream has over 3000 hours of flying to his credit. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner and has also qualified as an Experimental Test Pilot.

Squadron Leader NS Jamwal was selected for conversion on to the prestigious SU-30 multi role aircraft and underwent training in Russia. His test pilot background and the experience gained as a Qualified Flying Instructor enabled him to master the formidable SU-30 aircraft with professional ease. His delicate handling of such a large and heavy aircraft and manoeuvring with clockwork precision in a limited airspace speaks volumes of his professional ability. His deft handling of the aircraft and professional knowledge of the intricate flying characteristics of the SU-30 led to his being nominated as an aerobatic display pilot. He has successfully demonstrated the exceptional manoeuvrability of the SU-30 aircraft during various low level aerobatics displays on occasions of national importance including Republic/Independence Day, Vayu Shakti 98, Air Force Day and the Mumbai Air Show.

Squadron Leader Jamwal is a soft spoken individual who had always aimed for perfection and precision display with professional pride. With such an attitude and approach to the intricate task of aerobatic flying, he has been a source of inspiration to everyone.

For his dedication, devotion to duty and high degree of professionalism, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Nirmal Singh Jamwal.

Wing Commander Nirmal Singh Jamwal VM (17156) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned on 28 May 1983 in the Flying branch of the IAF. In 21 years of distinguished service, he has held several key appointments, which include Commanding Officer of Fighter Squadron, the first Su-30 MKI unit. He has been awarded Vayu Sena Medal in 1999 for his distinguished service. Presently, he is Commanding Officer of a Su-30 MKI unit since 20 May 2002.

As a team leader for Su-30 MKI theoretical training in Russia, Wg Cdr Jamwal ensured effective training by close liaison with AA at Embassy of India, Moscow and Comdt of Trg Academy, whenever there were lacunae. As a result, additional training team was sent later by Russians to India to cover the shortfalls.

He identified the key qualities of the Su-30 MKI and recommended improvements for implementation on subsequent phases of the aircraft which have resulted in key modifications in Phase-2 aircraft and many more will be implemented in Phase-3 aircraft. He identified the problem of windshield and canopy distortion on Su-30 MKI and as a result, the Russians have been forced to change some existing windshield and canopies as well as exercise better quality control in future. His overall contribution towards improvements to the final aircraft version and operational use of the aircraft is noteworthy.

As designated 'Display Pilot', Wg Cdr Jamwal exploited the super-manoeuvre capability of the Su-30 MKI Aircraft and carried out aerobatic displays at various air shows. He formulated type SOPs for Air to Air Refueling (AAR) and the Squadron achieved AAR operational status in short time validating he entire AAR envelope. Under his command the Squadron partici pated in various exercises including Gauntlet 2003 and 2004, the first operational exercise of the Squadron, putting up professional displays in spite of constraints of manpower and tech personnel.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Nirmal Singh Jamwal VM.