| Details : | Wing Commander Mohonto Panging (20446) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in the Flying Branch on 16 Dec 1989. The officer is a Fighter Strike Leader, Pilot Attack Instructor and a graduate of Defence Services Command and Staff College, Bangladesh. The officer is presently the Commanding Officer of a Su-30MKI squadron. The officer has over 3300 hrs of flying on fighter aircraft and is qualified on the Su-30MKI, Su-30K, Jaguar and Hunter aircraft. He was a founding member of both the first Su-30K and Su- 30MKI Squadrons (Sqn) in the IAF Since these aircraft were newly inducted in the IAF, most of the work for operationalising these highly potent aircraft had to be done by the initial core team of officers. Wing Commander Panging was instrumental in evolving and compiling Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Combat Briefing Guides, Maritime SOP, Combat Employment Manual specific to Su-30MKI operations. His expertise was put to use in formulating tactics for new weapon systems including new tactics for employment of Beyond Visual Range missiles. During his tenure as the Flight Commander of a Su-30MKI squadron, the squadron was adjudged the best fighter squadron within South Western Air Command and also performed exceedingly well during the inspection visit by the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection. He has been commended by the Chief of Air Staff as well as by the Air Officer Commanding -in- Chief South Western Air Command, for his dedication to duty. As the Commanding Officer, he led the Sqn with utmost dedication and by setting personal examples to attain professional excellence. Under his command, the Sqn secured 100% marks in all the events participated during the inter squadron gunnery meet. The squadron for the first time successfully fired the anti-ship missile on a disused ship, scoring a direct hit. The squadron also carried out fighter operations by night for the first time in IAF from Car Nicobar airbase under very demanding conditions. Post 26/11, the Sqn was also deployed at forward bases and maintained high alert states for long periods. He is also a qualified low level aerobatics display pilot and is presently the Display Supervisor responsible for training new pilots. He has performed breathtaking displays at various venues in India and won accolades from dignitaries, both military and civilians. For exceptional devotion to duty, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Mohonto Panging. |
