| Details : | Group Captain Shekher Chauhan (18550) flying (Pilot)was commissioned as a pilot in the flying branch on 06 Dec 86. He was awarded the Nawanagar Sword of Honour for his exceptional performance in flying training. He has held the appointments of an Instructor Class 'C' at National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Pune, Flight Commander of an An-32 Squadron (Sqn), Directing Staff at Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, prior to assuming his current Command assignment. His outstanding performances as a Right Commander and as a Directing Staff have been commended by Chief of Air Staff and Chief of Integrated Staff Committee, HQ IDS respectively. As a Flight Commander, he was instrumental in accomplishing a ten ac, close formation by dark night, at low level, for a Bn Gp Drop during Ex-Sangh Shakti 2006. The unit accomplished incident free 5000 flying hours in the calendar year 2005. He led a ten aircraft formation comprising all unit aircraft, which demonstrated his leadership and professionalism. On assuming Command of the An-32 Sqn , he ensured significant up-gradation of the Sqn categorisation and air maintenance qualification states of his aircrew. The Sqn has, since, accomplished all tasks assigned to it, maintaining the highest professional standards. The unit's performance and op preparedness was appreciated during the CASI visit in Aug 2010. He was the Task Force Commander for An-32 ac missions during Ex-Pralay in Sep 2010. The planning and execution of all missions demonstrated highest professional standards. The first ever, dark night, Air Landed Mission, comprising two ac, was executed with flawless precision. His personal involvement is reflected in increased availability of ac for operations, low rectification percentage, commendable safety environment, high levels of professionalism, motivation, discipline and cohesion in the Unit. As a professional, he has a vast experience in air maintenance operations, both in the Northern and Eastern sectors. He is qualified for all roles of An-32 ac. The officer exploits his multidimensional service experience to accomplish all operational and administrative tasks to enviable standards. His exemplary zeal, professionalism, and leadership have been inspirational for all personnel of the Station. For exceptional devotion to duty, Hon'ble president is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty)' to Group Captain Shekher Chauhan . |
