Air Force Wing Commander Akshay Saxena was conferred with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for the daring rescue operation in the Arabian Sea in 2024.

• Wing Commander Akshay Saxena was tasked with a mission in support of operation Sankalp aimed at coercing 35 pirates onboard a merchant ship to surrender and ensure the safe evacuation of 17 crew members.
• This recognition marks the increasing threats posed by piracy in international waters, particularly from Houthi rebels targeting merchant vessels.
• The operation, conducted on 16 March last year, was part of the Indian Navy’s Operation Sankalp, aimed at ensuring maritime security in the region.