Details : | Squadron Leader Anil Kumar (18790) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of a MiG-27 Squadron since 03 May 1998. On 08 Mar 01 Sqn Ldr Anil Kumar was authorised to fly as one of the two attackers in a group combat mission involving four MiG-27 aircraft. At the end of the second situation, while disengaging the afterburner, Sqn Ldr Anil Kumar found that it did not switch off, and that the throttle was stuck in the minimum afterburner position. Despite his best efforts, RPM could not be reduced below 100%. Applying his excellent knowledge on the aircraft systems, Sqn Ldr Anil Kumar selected the relight switch to "ON" position, which helped reduce RPM to 85% - 87%. Such a combination of emergencies is neither mentioned in any publications, nor has happened before. Thereafter, while executing the approach to landing, the aircraft continued to accelerate beyond permissible threshold speeds. Having methodically analysed all available options, Sqn Ldr Anil Kumar operated the low-pressure fuel shut off lock at a speed of 450 km/h on short finals to switch off the engine and landed the aircraft safely. The permitted threshold speed is 370 km/h, beyond which ejection Is mandatory. Thus, Sqn Ldr Anil Kumar handled the entire hitherto unseen multiple emergencies with courage, in a very calm, composed and professional manner, and recovered a crippled aircraft without any damage from a situation, which would have necessitated ejection. For his exceptional act of courage and professional display in recovering a crippled aircraft with multiple emergencies, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) to Squadron Leader Anil Kumar. |