Flight Lieutenant Hardeep Singh Boparai was commissioned in the Aeronautical Engineering (Mechanical) Branch of the Indian Air Force in November, 1962.

During the December, 1971 operations, he was employed as the Senior Technical Officer of a Fighter Bomber Squadron which operated from a forward airfield in the Western Sector.

On 4th and 5th December, 1971, four aircraft suffered heavy damages due to enemy air attack and ground. He carried out necessary repairs along with his men and made three of these aircraft airworthy within a very short time. Six more aircraft which were later damaged were also repaired on the spot. Though the airfield was equipped to undertake only first line servicing, he, with his ingenuity and hard work, maintained a high rate of serviceability.

In the night of 9th/10th December, 1971, the airfield was attacked by enemy aircraft and Squadron Armament Store was set on fire, lighting the entire dispersal area. All buildings and aircraft pens also became vulnerable to en attack. Though the air raid siren was on, he, with the help of another officer and some airmen extinguished the fire thus not only saved the Armament Store but also ensured that the airfield was not visible from the air.

Throughout the hostilities, Flight Lieutenant Hardeep Singh Boparai displayed high organising ability, leadership and professional skill in the best traditions of the Indian Air Force. For his distinguished service of a high order is awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.