Vir Chakra (VrC)

During the operations against Pakistan in December 1971, Squadron Leader Farokh Jehangir Mehta flew 22 operational missions of close air support in Kutch and Barmer Sectors and made successful strikes at Mirpur and Badin. He flew five counter air missions against Badin, Talahar and Masroor airfields. On 13 December, while he was on a strike mission to Talahar airfield, he was engaged by a Sabre. In the ensuing air battle he shot down the enemy aircraft. On another occasion, while he was on a close air support mission in Naya Chor area, he was attacked by a Sabre. He manoeuvred his aircraft with great skill and secured a hit at the enemy aircraft which was seen crashing.

Throughout, Squadron Leader Mehta displayed gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty of a high order.