Wing Commander Venkata Ramana Mantha (17284) AE (M) was commissioned on 01 Sep 83 in the Engineering Branch of the IAF. He has served in three MiG-21 squadrons, twice as Senior Technical Officer. While serving at Air Force Station Bhuj, he was commended by AOC-in-C South Western Air Command (SWAC) for service of a high order. He is a Master of Technology in Material Science. He was trained as a Flight Test Engineer (FTE) at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE) in 93-94 and has since been an FTE at ASTE. He has been involved in flight testing in an extremely wide range of aircraft and systems; he specialises in Electrooptics. He was responsible for flight-testing that resulted in the induction of laser-guided bombs (LGBs) and their air borne laser designation systems into the IAF. He was also responsible for integration of laser designator systems into the IAF. He was also responsible for the integration of laser designator and navigation pod on the Mirage 2000 and Jaguar aircraft.

During the Kargil conflict, a crisis loomed large due to the non-availability of suitable fuses for LGBs. Happening to be at the concerned base, Wg Cdr Mantha used his innovativeness to modify and adapt a fusing scheme to make the LGBs functional. The LGBs were used with telling effect on enemy bunkers. But for Wg Cdr Mantha's initiative, the LGBs could not have been used. At present, Wg Cdr Mantha is the principal FTE in a programme to integrate a sophisticated helmet mounted display and updating device with a state of the art air-to-air missile on the Mirage2000. The programme involves aerodynamics, structures, Electro-optics, avionics, ergonomics, fighter tactics and pilot safety. He has been coordinating this complex project in a highly professional manner.

For distinguished service of a high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Wing Commander Venkata Ramana Mantha.