Group Captain Satish Pal Singh (13770-H) Flying (Pilot) is posted as Commanding Officer of a Transport Squadron since 30 Mar 98.

This highly committed Officer in true patriotic spirit motivated his men to work round the clock and ensured that servicing of aircraft was completed well ahead of schedule and that maximum number of aircraft were made available for the tasks of Op Sqn deployment, airlift of army formations, shifting of AD elements, positioning of armament load and augmentation of manpower from far flung places to the theatre of operations. He perceived this requirement well in advance and with keen involvement and correct guidance to maintenance staff ensured that three IL-76s were available and that 100% AN32 were serviceable for all tasks. Accident/Incident free flying of over 1300 hrs by the Sqn during this period and airlift of 3000 tons and 4500 troops bears an eloquent testimony to his meticulous planning and exemplary leadership.

During 'Op Safed Sagar' the threat of enemy AD Fighters and MANPADS loomed large in the Northern Sector. Displaying exceptional degree of operational orientation he devised procedures to ensure minimum exposure of own aircraft and motivated all aircrews for uninterrupted operations in the Valley despite hostile operating environment and inclement weather. Unmindful of his personal comfort and safety he led the Sqn from the front and flew round the clock not only on the IL-76 but also on AN-32 and logged 70 hrs in just 20 days during the initial phase of 'Op Safed Sagar'. His personal example and unflinching devotion to duty motivated his team towards the singular objective of providing total support for 'Op Safed Sagar' which was a true force multiplier and immensely helped the IAF and the Army in attaining their objective.

For his exemplary leadership, devotion to duty and indomitable courage, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Group Capt Satish Pal Singh.

Air Commodore Satish Pal Singh VM (13770) Flying (Pilot) has been in command of Air Force Station, Yelahanka since 14 October 03. Prior to taking over command of the Station, Air Cmde SP Singh was the Chief Instructor at the Station and contributed immensely to the success of Aero India 2003, beside accomplishing all training tasks of the station.

As the JD Ops (T) In Air HQ (VB), Air Cmde SP Singh Initiated several projects for the IAF, which are now bearing fruit. In 1997 he was a member of a delegation to Russia, Ukraine and Uzbekistan to select and finalise the FRA requirements for the Air Force. During the Kargil operations in May 1999, as the Commanding Officer of a frontline Transport Squadron he planned and executed the airlift of Army and Air force units to the war front and was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for gallantry. During his tenure as the Commanding Officer the Squadron was adjudged the “Best Transport Squadron" of the Air Force for two consecutive years. He also achieved the singular distinction of becoming the first pilot to land both the IL-76 and An-32 aircraft, by night, at Thoise, giving an enormous fillip to the operational utilisation of these aircraft. In the aftermath of Bhuj earthquake he led the Squadron in conducting round the clock relief operations bringing succor to the victims of the earthquake.

In his present tenure as Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station, Yelahanka he has ensured that the task of training of aircrew transport aircraft and Mi-8 helicopters is undertaken with emphasis on quality and timely completion, despite the constraints in available resources. Apart from meeting the routine tasks of the Station, Air Cmde SP Singh has led his team of officers and airmen to discharge the additional responsibilities entrusted to the Station. An-32 aircraft and Mi-8 helicopter of the station played a key role in providing relief to the large population affected by Tsunami.

Aero India 2005 was held at Air Force Station Yelahanka from 09 February to 13 February 05. This involved a mammoth task. Air Cmde SP Singh streamlined all planning and procedures for the Airshow and meticulously supervised the large amount of infrastructure works for the Airshow. The Airshow was an unprecedented success and was highly appreciated by all dignitaries and visitors.

Air Commodore Satish Pal Singh VM has thus rendered distinguished service of exceptional order.