Wing Commander Dhananjai Vishnu Wani (18568) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF in 1986. Since Apr 2001 he has been a directing staff at Tactical & Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) and has been holding the appointment of officer incharge Development. A Fighter Combat Leader Course Instructor, he is an outstanding professional who has proved his mettle in various challenging assignments time and again. He flew more than 45 sorties during 'Op Safed Sagar' and was awarded 'Mention in Dispatches' for his role in the operations. He has over 2900 hrs of accident free flying, which includes 2800 sorties on various MiG-21 variants and over 1200 sorties on the Mirage 2000. He has an in-depth professional knowledge on Air Interception Radars, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Missiles and other associated avionics of modern day Air Superiority Fighters. He has played a key role in finding operational solutions to various development tasks undertaken at TACDE.

He has been involved in the development of 'BVR' combat tactics and night combat trials for 'special Task' during his tenure at TACDE. He was in charge of developing tactics and their employment during Ex Cope India and was instrumental in the spectacular results achieved during the exercise. He was the Exercise Coordinator, responsible for all aspects of Sindex 04, the first ever IndoSingapore Fighter exercise. His innovation in efficiently utilising the Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation (ACMI) station reduced the debrief time by one third at the same time improving the quality of debriefs during Sindex 04. He has contributed immensely towards both the international exercises, which has enhanced our prestige internationally. His positive attitude, mature approach and analytical ability have been instrumental in bringing about far-reaching changes in TACDE and have been a source of inspiration to others.

For distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Dhananjai Vishnu Wani.