Squadron Leader Biswanath Kar (21831) F (P) was commissioned on 13 Jun 1992. He is on the posted strength of a Hunter Squadron since 01 Dec 1997. His total service flying is 987 hours. He is also dual trained on the Lakshya Pilotless Target Aircraft and is one of the few pilots who is fully operational in flying this aircraft.

On 24 Sep 2001, Sqn Ldr Kar was ferrying a Hunter aircraft from Kalaikunda to Ambala. On reaching overhead Ambala, during the process of burning fuel, his engine flamed out. He tried a hot and cold relight, which were unsuccessful. At the time of the flame out the altitude of the aircraft was 7000 feet and he was not very favourably positioned in relation to the runway. Poor visibility and an unfamiliar airfield were added constraints. Despite these, Sqn Ldr Kar kept his cool and manoeuvred his aircraft to position himself on finals. During the process his ailerons went into manual control. He landed his aircraft at the correct touch down point and at correct speeds.

An engine failure in a single engine fighter would have normally resulted in an ejection leading to the loss of an aircraft, a precious national asset. The exceptional courage and professionalism exhibited by Sqn Ldr Kar, led to the safe recovery of the aircraft.

For his professional skill of high order, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Squadron Leader Biswanath Kar.