Wing Commander Dilip Chhotu Sambhare successfully commanded the Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron of the Indian Air Force from Nov 81 to Jun 84. During this tenure, he demonstrated flying skill of a very high order on Canberra aircraft and a correspondingly high level of airmanship, professional competence and specialist knowledge. Under his command, all survey and photographic tasks assigned to the Squadron were successfully completed. Also, the Squadron achieved a commendable accident­free record during the period under conditions of intensive flying and launching of operations from various bases spread far and wide in India.

Shortage of resources in men and material during his tenure called for additional and concerted effort oh the part of the Squadron to clear the backlog of priority survey tasks. This was made possible not only by his ability to inspire officers and airmen under his command to put in long hours of hard work, but also by his astute management of limited resources.

He has himself flown many hazardous photo reconnaissance missions successfully, in the face of danger to himself and the aircraft, and made available valuable information of national and strategic importance. His understanding of the urgency of these tasks was invariably sound, and he produced reliable results on every occasion in the critical time frame given to him.

For his devotion to duty, dedication to the Service and a high sense of responsibility in the highest traditions of the Indian Air Force, the President is pleased to award Vayu Seva Medal to Wing Commander Dilip Chhotu Sambhare.