In a remarkable display of bravery, Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilot Group Captain Ranjit Singh Sidhu has been awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s prestigious wartime gallantry award, for his exceptional performance during Operation Sindoor in May. This operation marked a significant moment of tactical execution in the ongoing efforts to secure national borders.
According to an official citation released on October 4, Group Captain Sidhu undertook numerous deep-penetration strike missions that successfully destroyed key targets with surgical precision. These missions took place under complex threat scenarios and amidst sophisticated layered air defenses.
During the four-day military conflict between India and Pakistan, Group Captain Sidhu led his squadron, equipped with advanced fighter aircraft, into hostile airspace where they successfully accomplished all their assigned objectives. The conflict stemmed from rising tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The citation describes his leadership as exceptional, stating, “As the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Ranjit Singh Sidhu exhibited extraordinary acts of gallantry, resolute leadership, and unwavering dedication to duty in a high-stakes combat environment, disregarding personal safety.” His actions played a pivotal role in maintaining morale and operational efficacy among his fellow airmen.
Group Captain Sidhu meticulously planned and executed aerial operations from three different locations in the Western sector. His hands-on approach included personally leading various missions and making dynamic, real-time decisions to adapt to evolving threats. His bold leadership ensured not only the success of the missions but also the safety of those under his command.
The IAF achieved an enhanced offensive posture under his guidance, which proved to be a decisive factor during the operation. This success underscored the importance of skilled leadership in high-pressure situations such as aerial combat.
The Vir Chakra, the nation’s third-highest wartime gallantry honour, has also been awarded to eight other IAF pilots who displayed incredible bravery during Operation Sindoor. These pilots played crucial roles in precision strikes targeting terrorist infrastructure and military installations in Pakistan-controlled areas.
Among the other recipients is Group Captain Manish Arora, whose citation highlighted his dynamic leadership during an unescorted strike mission through heavily defended airspace. He executed low-level night manoeuvres, achieving outstanding accuracy despite the presence of enemy radar and missile threats.
Additionally, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik received recognition for his resolute valour and audacious manoeuvring that effectively threw enemy formations into tactical disarray.
The awards were part of a comprehensive recognition system approved by President Droupadi Murmu, who sanctioned a total of 127 gallantry awards and 40 distinguished service awards to honour outstanding contributions to national security on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day.
These recognitions not only highlight individual heroism but also reflect the collective determination of the IAF in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
