Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Squadron leader Ravindra Nath Bali was a senior pilot in a fighter bomber squadron. He was detailed to destroy a massive enemy thrust spearheaded by a tank regiment at Longewala. He led three strike missions on 5 December and one on 6 December. During these attacks, he destroyed three tanks and caused extensive damage to a number of other tanks and vehicles despite heavy ground fire and on some occasions intense enemy air opposition. 

On 7 December, he again led a strike mission to the same area and destroyed two tanks. However, during the pullout after the second attack, his aircraft was hit by ground fire and half of the control surfaces were knocked off. Despite the damage to his aircraft, he skillfully brought it back to base. His missions contributed significantly in neutralising the enemy thrust and in the overall success of the operations.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Bali displayed gallantry, professional skill and leadership of a high order.