| Details : | Group Captain Sunil Padegaonkar (17279) Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as an Engineer in the Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) branch on 22 Aug 1983. He has held appointments of Senior Engineering Officer of a MiG 23 Squadron, Squadron Commander Aircraft Technical Squadron of a MiG 29 flying base, Joint Director Personnel Officers (Mechanical) at Air HQ and Command Engineering Officer (A) in Maintenance Command. He was trained in MiG 29 overhaul technology in Russia and was instrumental in setting up overhaul line at 11 Base Repair Depot(BRD). He is functioning as Group Commander Maintenance Support Group at AF Stn Pune since 05 Nov 07. He was commended by Chief of the Air Staff Commendation on 08 Oct 95. Gp Capt Padegaonkar is a thorough professional with vast experience. His conceptual ability and foresight was evident when he handled planning and execution of techno-logistics activities for the international Red Flag Exercise held in Jul-Sep 08 in USA. His creative approach coupled with good understanding of practical difficulties led to significant achievements across the gamut of maintenance activities like Weapon Storage Area, Work Packages, Records and Handbook for Missiles, Online Fuel Testing, Hydraulic and Fuel discipline, Road safety, environmental improvements in Laboratories, Navigational Aids and Communication systems etc. He also ensured that the efficiency and effectiveness of maintenance activities was achieved by revamping Maintenance Control Centre and implementing easily accessible online maintenance software package for data retrieval, analysis and knowledge management. Gp Capt Padegaonkar initiated reliability studies for Su-30 MKI fleet and followed up with inputs for ARS and Rotable management. His guidance in setting up a robust system of spares management has resulted in mitigating the constraints of spares shortage. His grass root level experience and understanding of the needs of air warriors has resulted in a culture of continuous improvement in the Station. His thrust on result oriented approach and effective marshalling of available resources has culminated in AF Stn Pune being given the Best in Maintenance trophy in SWAC, IAF for year 2008. For distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Sunil Padegaonkar. |
