Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik of the Indian Air Force has emerged as one of the most inspiring names associated with Operation Sindoor, India’s decisive military response to Pakistan-backed terrorism in 2025. A Su-30MKI fighter pilot from Manipur, he was awarded the Vir Chakra on Independence Day, 15 August 2025, for displaying exceptional courage, precision and operational skill during high-risk strikes against terror targets across the border.
His story is significant not only because of the gallantry medal he received, but also because it reflects the rise of young officers from India’s farthest regions into the most demanding combat roles of the armed forces. From Keikhu village in Imphal East district to the cockpit of one of the Indian Air Force’s most powerful fighter aircraft, Squadron Leader Malik’s journey stands as a powerful example of discipline, national service and quiet determination.
Born into a modest family in Keikhu village of Manipur’s Imphal East district, Rizwan Malik is the son of Alhaj Hafizuddin and Alhajan Waheeda Rehman. He belongs to the Meitei Pangal community, also known as Muslim Meiteis, a community deeply woven into the social and cultural fabric of Manipur. Though detailed information about his early schooling and childhood remains limited in the public domain, his rise to become a frontline fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force reflects years of perseverance, hard training and commitment to duty.
Squadron Leader Malik was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 20 June 2015 in the Flying branch as part of the 195th Course. His service number is 34563 F(P). He was promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant on 20 June 2017 and later rose to the rank of Squadron Leader on 20 June 2021. Over the years, he developed the skills required to operate in one of the most complex and high-pressure environments in modern military aviation.
He is associated with No. 102 Squadron of the Indian Air Force, popularly known as the Tridents. The squadron operates the Su-30MKI, a highly capable multirole fighter aircraft that forms the backbone of India’s air combat and deep-strike capability. The Su-30MKI is known for its long range, heavy weapons load, manoeuvrability and ability to perform air superiority as well as ground-attack missions. Flying such an aircraft requires exceptional technical knowledge, physical endurance and the ability to make split-second decisions under extreme pressure.
Before Operation Sindoor, Squadron Leader Malik’s service record, like that of many serving officers, remained largely away from public attention. The Indian Air Force does not usually disclose detailed operational profiles of serving fighter pilots, particularly those involved in sensitive missions. However, his selection for a combat role in Operation Sindoor indicates the level of trust placed in his flying ability, mission discipline and operational readiness.
Operation Sindoor was launched on 7 May 2025 as India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack of 22 April 2025, in which 26 innocent lives were lost in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack, linked to Pakistan-based terror groups, triggered a strong national demand for action. India responded with a carefully planned and calibrated operation targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Unlike earlier responses, Operation Sindoor represented a broader and more technologically integrated military action. It involved precision air strikes, intelligence-based targeting, missile systems and a layered air defence posture. The operation was aimed at punishing terror networks while also sending a clear message that attacks on Indian civilians would invite direct and decisive consequences.
Indian Air Force aircraft, including Su-30MKIs, played a major role in the operation. The targets reportedly included terror training camps, command facilities and logistical infrastructure used by groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Locations such as Bahawalpur and Muridke came into focus due to their association with major Pakistan-based terror organisations. The objective was to destroy critical terror infrastructure while avoiding unnecessary collateral damage.
Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik’s role in the operation was among the most notable. Flying a Su-30MKI in hostile conditions, he was part of precision strike missions against high-value targets. According to the details available, he displayed exemplary bravery, decisive leadership and unwavering dedication while executing his assigned mission. His flying skills and target accuracy contributed directly to the success of the operation.
Reports associated with the operation mention strikes on important terror and military-linked facilities, including targets in Bahawalpur and other strategic locations. Squadron Leader Malik’s actions were credited with helping neutralise key hostile infrastructure and inflicting serious damage on enemy assets. His mission required not only courage in the face of threat, but also the calm precision expected of a highly trained fighter pilot operating in a complex combat environment.
The Vir Chakra awarded to Squadron Leader Malik recognises acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy. It is India’s third-highest wartime gallantry award after the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. For a serving fighter pilot, receiving the Vir Chakra is a rare and distinguished honour, placing him among the country’s most respected combat aviators.
He was among nine Indian Air Force officers honoured with the Vir Chakra for their role in Operation Sindoor. The awardees included senior and young officers who contributed to different aspects of the operation. This recognition highlighted the Indian Air Force’s central role in delivering precision strikes and maintaining air dominance during the operation.
For Manipur, Squadron Leader Malik’s recognition became a moment of immense pride. His achievement showed how young people from the Northeast continue to contribute significantly to the Indian Armed Forces. Coming from a region that has produced many brave soldiers, officers and sportspersons, Malik’s gallantry added another inspiring chapter to Manipur’s legacy of service and courage.
The public reaction to his award was filled with admiration. Leaders, citizens and defence enthusiasts praised his courage and professional excellence. His story resonated strongly because it represented both national pride and regional inspiration. For many young aspirants from Manipur and the Northeast, his journey from a village in Imphal East to the cockpit of a Su-30MKI became a reminder that dedication and discipline can open the highest doors of service.
Operation Sindoor also changed the wider conversation around India’s military response to terrorism. It demonstrated that India was willing to use precise and coordinated military force to strike at terror infrastructure across the border. The operation reinforced the importance of air power, intelligence coordination and advanced weapons systems in modern warfare. Officers like Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik became the human face of this new operational confidence.
What makes his story particularly powerful is the combination of humility and heroism. Fighter pilots often operate away from public view, and many of their missions remain classified or only partially known. Yet their actions can have a decisive impact on national security. Squadron Leader Malik’s Vir Chakra brought public recognition to the courage that usually remains hidden behind operational secrecy.
As a serving officer, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik continues to represent the finest values of the Indian Air Force: professionalism, courage, discipline and devotion to duty. His achievement is not merely a personal milestone but a source of inspiration for countless defence aspirants across India. It shows that the path to glory in uniform is built through years of training, sacrifice and silent commitment.
His journey from Keikhu village to the skies over hostile territory is a story of national integration, military excellence and fearless service. In the larger history of Operation Sindoor, Squadron Leader Rizwan Malik will be remembered as one of the brave air warriors who carried out a difficult mission with courage and precision, helping India deliver a strong message against terrorism.
For the people of Manipur, he is a proud son of the soil. For the Indian Air Force, he is a gallant officer who upheld the highest traditions of the service. For the nation, he is a reminder that India’s strength lies in the courage of its soldiers, sailors and air warriors who stand ready to defend the country, no matter how difficult the mission.
