| Details : |  Wing Commander Joseph Suares (21209) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of a premier fighter Squadron since 21 May 2001 and Is presently the Flight Commander. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and has 1950 hours of total service flying.On 30 Nov 2004, while operating Air to Ground firing from Tezpur, Wg Cdr Suares was airborne for a range dual check sortie over Dulang Mukh range, with a trainee pilot. While leaving range, the aircraft experienced a sudden total electrical failure. Total electrical failure leads to immediate failure of all communications equipment, vital aircraft instrument as well as navigation equipment. The control system in pitch channel also becomes ineffective making manoeuvering of aircraft difficult. Wing Commander Joseph Suares promptly and correctly assessed the gravity of the situation and decided to recover the aircraft at Jorhat, the closest diversion. Enroute to Jorhat he correctly assessed the weather to be marginal and decided to recover at Tezpur. The multiple . unserviceabilities coupled with tho inclement weather made the task much more difficult for the pilot to land the Mig-21 aircraft. For lowering of undercarriage, Wg Cdr Suares had to gesticulate and shout to the trainee to lower the nose wheel on emergency since it can only be done from front cockpit. He lowered the main wheels himself using the emergency system. He then executed a safe flapless approach and landing. Even without , the tail chute and the anti skid system he safely stopped the aircraft without blocking the runway. Executing recovery of aircraft under these circumstances was a daunting task requiring extreme courage and determination. Any error could prove fatal. The pilot though had the option to eject under such marginal conditions, decided to save the aircraft against heavy odds.Wg Cdr Suares remained calm, composed and was situationally alive to the events while handling an adverse and completely unfamiliar situation. His professional acumen, maturity, and situational awareness in handling an unprecedented and unfamiliar situation made the crucial difference between a safe recovery and an accident.For displaying exceptional courage In handling of a critical emergency, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)' to Wing Commander Joseph Suares. |
