Wing Commander JS Panesar was commissioned as a pilot in the fighter stream in Jun 1973. He was one of the few officers who were selected to go to France to convert on to Mirage 2000 aircraft. He is a Fighter Combat Leader, a graduate of Defence Services Staff College and an expert on electronic warfare in which he has made significant contributions. He has over 3200 hours of accident free flying to his credit.

Wg Cdr Panesar has successfully completed two years in Command of a MiG-21 Bis Squadron. The Sqn operated safely and efficiently on detachment from Naliya when the parent Base was closed for seven months for runway resurfacing. This was possible due to Wg Cdr Panesar's ability to motivate the aircrew and technical staff and to mould them into an effective team. The Sqn was able to improve aircraft serviceability during his tenure.

Wg Cdr Panesar has also been a Fighter Combat Leader for the last 11 years. He took keen interest and played an active role in the training of young pilots and for inculcating in them the finer ingredients of combat flying. With ceaseless efforts and with his exemplary leadership, he brought about significant elevation of the operational (Op) capabilities of the Sqn by upgrading the Op status of many pilots. His Sqn won the team bombing trophy in the Inter Squadron Weapons Meet 1993. For exceptional devotion to duty the President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wg Cdr Jasbir Singh Panesar.