On the 24th October, 1985, when Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma was flying a night instructional sortie on Kiran aircraft along with his pupil, the engine of the aircraft suddenly failed due to material failure. Besides the total loss of power from the engine Squadron Ldr Sharma was also confronted with confusing engine instrument indications because of the very peculiar nature of failure. Displaying exemplary coolness and professionalism he correctly analysed the failure for which there was no remedial action. At this stage, any pilot would have been fully justified in abandoning the aircraft, which was over 35 km away from base, as a forced landing at night had never been attempted before. Had he chosen the apparently only possible option of abandoning the aircraft, besides the inevitable loss of the aircraft and probable ejection related injuries to pilots, valuable evidence as to why the engine failed would have been lost.

Relying on his consummate skills and inveterate professionalism, Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma completely disregarded the perils to himself and carried out a successful forced landing at night in a copy book fashion without any damage to the aircraft.

Squadron Leader Pradeep Sharma thus rendered superlative professionalism, cool and profound courage in saving a valuable aircraft in utter disregard to his own safety.