| Details : | Wing Commander Prashant Mohan (20160) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of a MiG-21 M Squadron of the Indian Air Force with effect from 03 Jul 2006 and is performing the duties of Commanding Officer since then. On 05 Feb 2008, the officer was authorized to fly a Low Flying chase sortie on a Mig-21 (Type-96). During a turn at low level he heard a thud. He found his aircraft pitching up viciously and rolling to the right at rates exceeding 50 - 60 degrees per second. Correctly analyzing the situation at that very instant, as a bird hit, most probably on his starboard aileron, his actions of controlling the aircraft were extremely prompt. Realising that he was losing control of the aircraft, as he had reached the limits of the stabiliser and aileron deflection and an ejection was imminent but he took a deliberate decision and throttled back during the climb. With this action he reduced the speed to 400 Kmph. At this speed he found that the situation had improved but it required a great deal of physical strength to pilot the aircraft. On putting the Aileron Booster off, the situation worsened. He looked right and found that the right aileron was totally ineffective which restricted him to execute only left-hand turn. With this restriction, and that of the right-hand circuit pattern operational at the base, due to the close proximity of the town he skillfully maneuvered the aircraft to carry out a left-hand circuit pattern but stayed clear of the populated area. Though the aircraft was grievously damaged and the situation warranted him to eject, but the officer displaying will power, tenacity and professional courage of the highest order elected not to eject and decided to bring back the aircraft so that vital clues regarding the incident could be available after landing. Pilot's dexterous maneuvering of the aircraft with onboard limitations even at the cost of endangering his own life which ensured that the aircraft was kept clear of populated area is in the highest traditions of the service. Post flight inspection revealed a dent of size 20" x 5" on the leading edge of the starboard wing root. Inside the damaged area, the aileron control rod was found broken into two parts causing the starboard aileron to become totally ineffective. The superior flying skills, vast experience and grit exhibited by the officer in recovering the aircraft are extremely commendable. For displaying exceptional courage in handling an aircraft emergency, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)' to Wing Commander Prashant Mohan. |
