| Details : | Air Commodore Jonnalagedda Chalapati (17358) Flying (Pilot)was commissioned on 22 Dec 83 as a fighter pilot and is presently serving as Principal Director Air Staff Requirements. In his 28 years of service, he has flown 3000 hours on more than 25 aircraft. He served as a Qualified flying Instructor at Air Force Academy and an Experimental Test Pilot at Aircraft & Systems Testing Establishment, involving himself with many important trials for aircraft and equipment being inducted into service. He also commanded the Operational Conversion Unit, where he was responsible for a perceptible upgradation in the training standards of young fighter pilots during this crucial training phase. He was selected to undergo the staff course at Bracknell in United Kingdom, where he lived upto expectations and performed exceedingly well. In all institutions and formations where he has been posted, the officer has left an indelible mark of excellence which has been noticed and commented upon. Air Commodore Chalapati took over as the Principal Director Air Staff Requirements at a crucial time when the IAF had commenced its modernization drive, with substantial increase in number of major acquisitions. The officer immediately involved himself in all the projects that were underway and displaying a very high level of professional expertise, he was very effective in coordinating all activities of the directorate towards fructification of all procurement schemes. His personal interest in guiding the project officers, maintaining effective liaison with officials of the Ministry of Defence and good articulation skills in lucidly expounding the viewpoint of the IAF at all forums, ensured that major procurement schemes of the IAF progressed on schedule. He was also instrumental in formulating a clear and cogent procedure for dealing with Foreign Military Sale cases with the United States Government. Under his able stewardship, the directorate concluded very significant contracts like sensor fused weapon, Harpoon Missile, additional Light Combat Aircraft, additional Akash Missile, additional Low Level Quick Reaction Missile and upgrade of Remotely Piloted Aircraft. Apart from the contracts which were concluded he with his foresight and vision progressed important projects like MMRCA, C-17, Mirage 2000 upgrade, Procurement of MICA, Basic trainer aircraft, New Generation Precision Guided Munitions for Jaguar aircraft, Heavy lift helicopters and attack helicopters to near conclusion stage. He worked tirelessly and contributed immensely to the force building of Indian Air Force, thereby enhancing National Security. His planning and negotiating skills and deep understanding of the procurement procedures were also highly appreciated by the acquisition wing of the Ministry of Defence of Government of India. For distinguished services of high order, Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vishisht Seva Medal' to Air Commodore Jonnalagedda Chalapati. |
