Wing Commander Vishwanathan Pasupathi (10887) Flying (Pilot) was posted as the Officer Commanding of a fighter squadron with effect from 05 Mar 86. The Squadron was then equipped with Badal aircraft and Located in Eastern Sector. The Squadron was subsequently selected to convert into Baaz aircraft in Oct 86 and he was retained as the officer commanding.

On his return from the USSR in Mar 87, he planned and executed move of the Squadron from Eastern Sector to South Western Sector in such a smooth and professional manner that the Squadron was able to commence acceptance of Baaz aircraft from Base Depot in a short period of less than a month. In spite of the fact that all the Standard Operating Procedures and training syllabi had to be prepared under his supervision, he was able to bring up the operational status of the Squadron to a state wherein the first detachment for operational trials could be successfully moved out to another wing.

Under his dynamic leadership the Squadron continued its operational training including integrated training with Vajra, Vikram and Shamsher aircraft.

Wg Cdr Vishwanathan Pasupathi, as the first commanding officer of a Baaz Squadron, was greatly responsible for smooth induction of this modern and high performance interceptor in the IAF and subsequent achievements of the Squadron which were attained without any serious accident.

For his sincere and hard work, dedication to service and professional excellence, the President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal to Wg Cdr Viswanathan Pasupathi.