Group Captain Yadunath Jayram Sathe (15044) Logistics was commissioned in the Logistics Branch of the IAF on 10 Jun 1977. He has held various staff and instructional appointments, which include Asst Director Armament and Safety Equipment at Air HQ, Directing Staff (Logistics) at Air Force Academy, Senior Logistics Officer (SLO) at Air Force Station, Jamnagar. His contribution as Senior Logistics Officer at Air Force Station, Jamnagar was particularly noteworthy during the cyclone of Jun 1998, Op preparedness during Kargil Op 1999 and the Bhuj earthquake in Jan 01. Gp Capt Sathe is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) Wellington. Presently, he is posted as Command Logistics Maintenance Officer (CLMO) at Headquarter Western Air Command (HQ WAC) since 01 Jul 2002.

At HQ WAC the task of managing logistics supplies to all WAC units during 'Op Parakram' was a daunting task. Later, during Oct-Nov 2002, deinduction of forces and equipment needed a huge transportation effort. Gp Capt Sathe handled both the tasks professionally and with aplomb. Post 'Op Parakram', he initiated a programme to ascertain and replenish the deficiencies in tentage and camouflage nets, caused due to long term deployment. He has also brought out a manual on clothing.

Gp Capt Sathe actively monitored the logistic activities at all WAC bases and guided the SLOs towards purposeful logistics support to all operational and maintenance tasks assigned to the units and stations. His proactive logistics planning, positive attitude and continuous dialogue with SLOs, brought about a qualitative change in the logistics support at the field level. As CLMO, he tirelessly pursued the supply chain for procurement of Aircraft on Ground (AOG) spares. He gave valuable and timely inputs on shortage of tyres for fighter ac which enabled taking corrective measures to tide over the critical period. Further, four Sqns were re-located during past six months. For the first time, the Sqn moves were accomplished using road transportation. Apart from the savings accrued, the advantages of doorto-door delivery ensured safety of equipment. MT management by SLOs went through the period of consolidation in 2002-03. Careful handling of MT funds along with planned down-gradation of vintage vehicles resulted in net savings of over 12% during the year 2002-03. His follow-up on rotation of vehicles at Leh and Thoise has improved the vintage of vehicles at these Stations.

Gp Capt Sathe has tremendous teambuilding and management abilities. These, coupled with astute professional knowledge, foresight and an eye for perfection have enabled him to post a new benchmark in logistics management in this premier operational command.

In recognition of his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Yadunath Jayram Sathe.