Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman to be conferred Vir Chakra

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, August 14

Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who chased Pakistani air force jets into Pakistan and shot down one of them on February 27 this year will be awarded the Vir Chakra, the country’s third highest battle honour.

The award is expected to be formally announced on Wednesday evening.

Indian Air Force and Pakistani Air Force were locked in an air duel over Noushera in Jammu and Kashmir when Wing Commander Varthaman chased the PAF jets and was shot down himself. He was captured by Pakistan and returned some 36 hours later.

Besides, seven IAF pilots will get the Vayu Sena Medal for gallantry and this includes the ‘Balakot bombers’. On February 26, at around 3.30 am, a team of Mirage fighter jets had dropped spice 200 guided bombs over Balakot in Pakistan. This team is based in Gwalior.

Five yudh sewa medals will also be awarded.