Squadron Leader Rajendra Kumar Yadav (17816) AE (L) is on posted strength of a Base Repair Depot (BRD) since 01 Feb 95. Earler the officer has worked for nearly 14 years in AN-32 Squadrons and technical flights in various capacities and was selected in Sep 94 for training abroad in major overhaul of AN32 aircraft and its rotables.

On his reporting to the BRD, the officer along with his team of foreign-trained technicians commenced work in setting up Rotables overhaul line. This task was indeed difficult and challenging since the test rigs and machines received from Russia were in dismantled condition, without any assembly, wiring, installation drawings or technical literature. Undaunted by the enormity of the task, Sqn Ldr Yadav, with his professional approach, guided his men in commissioning a large number of these rigs/machines. The effort was all the more significant as it was done without any foreign technical assistance. In a span of two years Sqn Ldr Yadav along with his team set up facilities of overhaul of over four hundered AN-32 Rotables.

In Oct 98, Sqn Ldr Yadav was assigned the duties of Chief of Aircraft responsible ofr the life extenstionn and major overhaul of AN-32 aircraft. He undertook detailed defect trend analysis and evaluation of life extension of the aircraft. He was instrumental in formulation of various life extension checks and their implementation. The officer has inspired, guided and motivated his men by his professionalism and total involvement whereby the AN-32 overhaul line overhauled a record number of aircraft during 1999-2000. By his innovative engineering approach, the officer has developed and implemented a number of critical modification on AN-32 aircraft such as spurious Signal Suppresser mod, Formation Light mod, Infra Red Passive Protection mod etc., which have contributed to enhancing the safety and reliability of the aircraft. His efforts and contributions in AN32 IVth line maintenance have resulted in savings substantial foreign exchange for the Nation.

For his exceptional professionalism, dedication to duty, hard work and distinguished service, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Squadron Leader Rajendra Kumar Yadav.