| Details : | Group Captain Manas Chatterjee (17356) Flying (Pilot) was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in the flying branch on 22 Dec 1983. He has been the Station Commander of Air Force Station, Tezpur since 17 Jan 08. The officer has approximately 2400 hrs of accident free fighter flying experience. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Combat Leader, an alumnus of Defence Services Staff College and a graduate of the Collage of Naval Warfare where he completed the Higher Command Course. He has commanded two operational units prior to his present appointment. He has been the Chief Operations Officer of a premier front line fighter base in the Western sector during Op Parakram where he single handedly planned and conducted several operational missions involving many types of aircraft and ground forces. The well planned deployment and smooth conduct of operations for a prolonged duration was well appreciated by all participating forces. The officer is presently posted as Director Air Staff Inspections. During his tenure as Station Commander, the officer has been an effective leader. With his extremely efficient management skills and immaculate planning, he has been able to ensure timely completion of several work services at Tezpur involving induction of new generation aircraft despite local problems and turbulence associated with the remoteness and location of the base. With his personal involvement and interaction, a mammoth task of Runway extension and resurfacing has been completed in record time. He has been wholeheartedly associated with Para 35 work services from concept to completion, involving renovation of outdated existing infrastructure in a record time of one year to facilitate induction of state of the art SU-30 aircraft at Tezpur which is a pioneering event for the Eastern Air Command. Several other projects such as 33 KVA independent feeder line renovation and air-conditioning of messes, airmen institute and improvement of water quality are in place which has substantially enhanced the quality of life of air warriors in the station. He has utilised his wide ranging experience in Operations to impart invaluable knowledge to the lodger units and support groups within the station. His critical analysis as well as focus on identifying systemic problems in the field related to flying, maintenance and environment has resulted in an impeccable flight safety record for the station. His dedicated effort and initiative has been instrumental in starting of projects such as integration of Tactical Air Defence Information Distribution System (TADIDS) in the AD network and energizing of the AF Net. During his tenure, the station has hosted the highest dignitaries of the nation and the IAF. Without exception, the contribution of this officer to the station has stood out and needs appreciation. For his outstanding professional competence, extreme dedication and distinguished service of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Group Captain Manas Chatterjee. |
