Wg Cdr Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal VM

Wing Commander Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal hailed from Punjab and was born on 6 January 1974. From an early age, he nurtured a deep aspiration to serve the nation in uniform. Inspired by the ideals of patriotism and military service, he worked diligently towards his goal and, after completing his school education, earned selection to the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA). During his training at the NDA, he distinguished himself through his dedication, discipline, and all-round performance, eventually being selected for the flying branch of the Indian Air Force. Following his successful completion of training at the NDA, he proceeded to the Air Force Academy, Dundigal near Hyderabad, where he underwent advanced flying training. He was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a Pilot Officer on 17 June 1995 as a member of the 155th Pilots' Course. After being inducted into the fighter stream of the IAF, he underwent rigorous multi-stage flying training to qualify as a fighter pilot. On completion of his operational conversion, he was posted to a frontline fighter squadron and went on to serve at several important Air Force bases across the country. Throughout his early years of service, he earned a reputation as a highly skilled, disciplined, and dependable fighter pilot, displaying exceptional professionalism and an unwavering commitment to flying excellence.

While serving with No. 17 Squadron as a Flying Officer, he was called upon to participate in Operation 'Safed Sagar', the Indian Air Force's air campaign during the Kargil War of 1999. Despite being one of the youngest fighter pilots in the IAF at the time, he was entrusted with the responsibility of undertaking highly challenging night strike missions against enemy positions in the rugged mountains of Kargil. During July 1999, he successfully flew four operational combat missions under extremely demanding conditions, navigating the treacherous Himalayan terrain in darkness and accurately delivering his weapons on designated enemy targets. His courage, exceptional flying skills, precision under pressure, and unwavering devotion to duty made a significant contribution to the success of the air operations during the conflict. In recognition of his outstanding gallantry, determination, and exemplary professional competence displayed during Operation 'Safed Sagar', he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), one of the Indian Air Force's distinguished decorations for acts of courage and devotion to duty.

After the Kargil War, he continued to serve the Indian Air Force with distinction, undertaking a variety of operational, instructional, and staff assignments. During this period, he married Ms Rubina, and the couple was blessed with a daughter, Rasha. Balancing the responsibilities of military service with those of a devoted husband and father, he remained deeply committed to both his family and his profession. By 2009, with nearly 14 years of distinguished service, Wing Commander Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal had matured into an exceptionally competent and experienced fighter pilot. His extensive operational experience, outstanding flying skills, and thorough understanding of diverse air operations had earned him the respect and admiration of both his superiors and fellow air warriors, making him one of the Indian Air Force's accomplished combat aviators.

Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) Mission: 21 Jan 2009

Wg Cdr Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal is survived by his wife Smt Rubina and daughter Ms Rasha. 

The citation of "Vayu Sena Medal" awarded to him reads:

Flying Officer Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal (23535-A) Flying (Pilot) is on the posted strength of a Fighter Squadron with effect from 13 May 96. He is a two aircraft leader with 756 hrs of total flying experience. He was actively involved in the operations conducted during Operation 'SAFED SAGAR' and performed flawlessly. His Squadron was tasked for the night strike role over target area from 27 Jul 99 onwards. The profile of these attacks was such that it required accurate and skilful flying in the valley by night at one km above terrain level. Enemy resistance in the form of anti aircraft artillery and low level quick reaction missiles was also present. With mere 46 hours of night flying, no prior exposure to night strikes and limited Valley flying experience, Flying Officer Dhaliwal flew a total of four successful missions in these demanding circumstances. In all of these missions, he accurately delivered his weapons and was also able to visually sight the impact points. Flying Officer RS Dhaliwal has just about four years of commissioned service that makes him one of the youngest pilots in the history of the Indian Air Force to have taken part in night strike operations.

For his exceptional courage, determination and devotion to duty, the Hon'ble President is pleased to award 'Vayu Sena Medal' to Flying Officer Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal.

• Wing Commander Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal's distinguished service as a fighter pilot and his gallant participation in Operation Safed Sagar during the Kargil War continue to inspire generations of air warriors and citizens alike. His story has been portrayed in the 2026 Hindi-language web series Operation Safed Sagar: The Untold Story of the Kargil War, based on the Indian Air Force's role in the conflict. In the series, actor Abhay Verma portrays the then Flying Officer Rajpal Singh Dhaliwal, recreating his courage, professionalism, and contribution to the successful execution of the Indian Air Force's combat operations during the Kargil War. The series serves as a tribute to the valour and dedication of the air warriors who participated in Operation Safed Sagar and helps preserve their legacy for future generations.