Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh took over command of the fighter Squadron of MIG-21 on its formation in March 1963, and in spite of the difficulties of a new unit, Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh achieved combat readiness and operational efficiency of his unit in the shortest possible time. In addition to the Squadron training he also had to undertake the training of the newly posted Pilots. Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh has to his credit 4400 hours of accident free flying on single-engined aircraft of which about 1000 hours are on jet fighters alone, which is a very creditable achievement. By his exceptional skill, zeal and enthusiasm, Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh converted his unit in a well-knit team of officers and airmen. Wing Commander Dilbagh Singh displayed commendable professional skill and devotion to duty in the best traditions of the Indian Air Force.

Group Captain (now Air Commodore) Dilbagh Singh was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in September 1944. He attended Day Fighter's Leader's Course and RAF Staff College Course in the U.K. He has commanded operational units with distinction and has also held important staff and training appointments. While commanding an operational Flying Station from 1966 to 1969, he displayed outstanding qualities of leadership and also administrative and organising ability. Again, recently while holding an Air Staff appointment at an Operational Command Headquarters he successfully planned and conducted operational exercises. His unremitting efforts, initiative and zeal have contributed greatly towards achieving a high state of training and combat effectiveness of a Fighter Squadrons in the Command.

Air Marshal Dilbagh Singh was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in 1944. In his long career in the Indian Air Force, he has commanded operational formations with distinction and has excelled in planning of operations and their execution. He has made valuable contribution towards combat readiness of the Indian Air Force squadrons, By his outstanding qualities of leadership, administrative and organising ability, initiative and drive, he infused a healthy spirit of competition amongst the operational units of the Indian Air Force. As Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of an Operational Group, he was instrumental in updating the operational and air defence plans, and enhancing the fighting efficiency of the Air Force in his Sector. He has constantly endeavoured to bring about allround improvements in the Indian Air Force.

Air Marshal Dilbagh Singh has thus rendered distinguished service of the most exceptional order.