Group Captain Arvindra Singh Butola VM (16789) F (P) was commissioned on 04 Jun 1982 in the Flying branch of the IAF. During 22 years of distinguished service, he has held important appointments which includes Flying Instructor at Basic Flying Training School (BFTS) and Helicopter Training School (HTS), Senior Test Flight Instructor at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE), Senior Flying Instructor at Namibian Defence Force and Commanding Officer of a Cheetah Unit. He is a Qualified flying Instructor, Experimental Test Pilot and graduate of Defence Services Staff College. He has more than 6100 hrs of accident/incident free flying of which 800 hrs have been flown towards test flying various types of helicopters in last three years. He has been awarded Vayu Sena Medal for displaying exceptional professionalism and devotion to duty. Presently he is on deputation to HAL as Deputy Chief Test Pilot since 21 Jul 2001.

As a QFI and Test Pilot, Gp Capt Butola converted user pilots on ALH on its induction into the three Services during 2002-03. Concerned with sudden increase in the accident rate of Cheetah helicopters including several fatal accidents, a project was taken up by HAL to re-engine the Cheetah with Turbomeca TM-333-2M2 to increase the reliability of the helicopter and resolve other problems affecting the indispensable Cheetah fleet. This was important as no other existing helicopter could meet the stringent requirements to operate in "Siachen Glacier". Group Captain Butola as a project pilot for the reengining of Cheetah involved himself with the project from the design phase and progressed it to first flight and thereafter single handedly undertook the flight-testing of the helicopter, at Bangalore and Leh, up to certification. He used his knowledge as a test pilot and experience of having operated Cheetah extensively at high altitudes to drive the project successfully and ensured that all problems were addressed and a solution found. Subsequent to certification by CEMILAC, Group Captain Butola successfully inducted re-engined Cheetah into the "Siachen Glacier" in May 2004.

The officer has not only displayed exceptional professional aptitude but has also been an epitome of sincerity and dedication while handling the project. The success of the re-engined Cheetah and its induction into the service would not only improve the reliability and safety of Cheetah but will also significantly improve the high altitude performance and reduce the cost of operation substantially. This will give a new lease of life to the Cheetah fleet and enhance operational capability.

For his distinguished service of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Arvindra Singh Butola VM.