Wing Commander Vivek Ram Chaudhari (16978) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the IAF on 29 Dec 1982 as a Fighter Pilot. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor (QF1) with over 3650 h of accident free flying to his credit. He has been part of the first formation aerobatics team on the Kiran Mk-II, Flight Commander of a fighter Squadron (Sqn) and an Air Force Examiner on all MiG variant and all trainer ac. He is presently commanding a fighter Sqn since 17 Sep 2001.

Wg Cdr Chaudhari assumed command of the Sqn at the time when the IAF was put on high alert. With his initiative, hard work, perseverance and excellent leadership qualities, he brought in transformational changes in the functioning of the Sqn. During 'Op Parakram', his Sqn was tasked to deploy at three locations as per the war plans. With only nine pilots and one trainer ac available, he alternated between the bases so as to complete the revalidation of augmented pilots in record time and become operational at the earliest from all three locations. While carrying out day and night Operational Readiness Platform (ORP) duties, he flew over 150 sorties and took part in all exercises. Being the only QF1 at one base, he also undertook the conversion of three under training pilots. In consultation with Tactics and Air Combat Development and Training Establishment (TACDE), he helped in development of tactics for Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Vs BVR missile engagements and interception of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. While remaining deployed, his Sqn provided Dissimilar Air Combat Training to all the MiG-21 Sqns within the command, thereby enhancing their operational status.

To overcome the constraints of limited ground equipment, which were adequate only for two detachments, he obtained common equipment from co-located fighter Sqns so that his Sqn could operate from five locations on two occasions. He also used the resources of Pechora units for air charging and Nitrogen purity testing resulting in reduced requirements of air cylinders. His Sqn made innovative use of autoloaders for removal of canopy and ejection seat for servicing, thereby saving on frequent ferries to parent base.

Working under constraints of split locations, inadequate communication between them, low manning levels and extended supply lines, he remained ahead of the situations and adopted proactive measures to enhance the output of the unit. By personally moving from one location to another he ensured that he was in constant touch with the entire unit personnel and kept morale of the Sqn high. The Sqn was deinducted after being deployed for thirteen months and was soon inspected by the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection team, without a warning. Wg Cdr Chaudhari led his Sqn to achieve average plus in operations and high average in maintenance activities.

For his exceptional devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Wing Commander Vivek Ram Chaudhari.