For their extraordinary bravery and accuracy during Operation Sindoor, nine Indian Air Force (IAF) officers—including fighter pilots—were granted the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime heroism honor.
These officers were instrumental in attacking vital Pakistani military assets and the terrorist organization’s headquarters in Muridke and Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
The Pahalgam terror assault, which left 26 people dead, prompted the start of this operation on May 7, 2025. Over 100 terrorists were killed and terrorist infrastructure was severely damaged as a result of the raids, which targeted nine terrorist camps located deep within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The winners of the Vir Chakra include three Squadron Leaders, Sarthak Kumar, Siddhant Singh, and Rizwan Malik; one Wing Commander, Joy Chandra; four Group Captains, Manish Arora, Animesh Patni, Kunal Kalra, and Ranjeet Singh Sidhu; and one Flight Lieutenant, Aarshveer Singh Thakur.
Operational success was largely due to their valiant deeds and accurate air operations. The government also awarded 26 Vayu Sena medals and one Shaurya Chakra to other air warriors who showed valor throughout the mission in addition to the Vir Chakra awards.
Indian forces effectively shot down at least six Pakistani aircraft and damaged multiple F-16s during the war, according to Indian Air Force Chief Marshal Amarpreet Singh, demonstrating the IAF pilots’ combat readiness and tactical skill.
Nine terrorist facilities and important military radar stations were targeted with precision strikes as part of the operations. Pakistan also launched drone attacks during the retaliatory exchanges, but Indian air defense systems—such as the locally produced Pechora, OSA-AK, and Akash surface-to-air missile systems—effectively repelled the attacks. To protect Indian airspace and vital infrastructure, the Indian Army’s air defense troops provided support to the Indian Air Force by deploying a variety of air defense weapons.
The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force all participated in the well-coordinated tri-services mission, which was carried out with great efficiency and cooperation. In addition to its immediate tactical success, Operation Sindoor conveyed a powerful message deterring cross-border terrorism and confirmed India’s regional dominance.
36 air warriors in all received recognition for their exceptional contributions to the operation. The gallantry awards are a testament to the bravery, professionalism, and commitment of the Indian Air Force troops who, in the face of difficult circumstances, carried out intricate airstrikes with accuracy and efficiency.
The Indian armed services’ operational preparedness, strategic capabilities, and dedication to national security are all demonstrated by Operation Sindoor. In addition to eliminating threats, it demonstrated excellent coordination across the military branches, which helped India achieve a notable military victory in a dangerous regional situation.
