Wg Cdr KH Babu, a post-graduate in Metallurgical Engineering was commissioned in IAF in Jul 71. He has held important appointments connected with the maintenance of aircraft as well as SAGW. For his contribution towards the improvement of maintenance and operational aspects of SAM-3 Technical Flight, he was awarded the Chief of the Air Staff Commendation in Aug 86.

Wg Cdr Babu has been working as Project Manager (Warheads) in Project Prithvi since Jan 89. He coordinated development, fabrication and testing of Pre-fragmented Monolithic Warhead for Prithvi. He contributed significantly in the design and development of Bomblet Submunition Warheads which are in advance stage.

The recovery of engine parts of Prithvi from Sea Bed was vital to carryout post flight review of PO8 Flight trial. This task of recovery was assigned to Wg Cdr Babu. The officer meticulously planned the recovery operation along with a team of divers from Eastern Naval Command. The officer went to SHAR centre and executed the recovery operation. The entire operation was successfully conducted in one week's time.

Contribution of Wg Cdr Babu to the training of Artillery Officers and Jawans in carrying out Prithvi Drills is outstanding. He wrote Combat Drill Manuals in consultation with the designers which helped the Artillery Team to carryout the Missile Preparation Drills smoothly and efficiently.

In recognition of outstanding contributions to the Project, the devotion and dedication shown, the President is pleased to award Vishisht Seva Medal to Wg Cdr KH Babu.