From a base in Germany, Squadron Leader Darrin Lindsay commanded a 100-strong team flying E-7A Wedgetail missions for Operation Kudu, monitoring and deterring threats to protect humanitarian and military assistance bound for Ukraine.
He also led the team through harsh winter conditions, night operations and unfamiliar European airspace to maintain a high mission success rate.
For his leadership and outstanding contribution to the operation, he has received the Conspicuous Service Cross in the 2025 King's Birthday Honours.
The first deterrence mission stood out as a defining moment, with the entire team sharing a sense of excitement and purpose.
Launching that flight confirmed the value of their preparation and set the tone for the success that followed.
"The very first mission was utterly exciting and proved that all of the rehearsals and teamwork, with every person pulling together, had paid off," Squadron Leader Lindsay said.
'In leadership, it's honesty and building a strong team based on transparency which achieves the desired outcomes.'
It was his first time commanding an overseas operation and he described it as the highlight of his career.
"I was privileged to lead the team drawn from across Australia and will always remember our time together because of what we achieved and the camaraderie we built," he said.
The five-month deployment required precise coordination with partner nations and round-the-clock vigilance to protect a critical supply corridor into Ukraine.
He said the success of the mission came down to the professionalism of the team, who maintained high-readiness rates despite the cold, long hours and demanding tempo.
Now posted to the United States for further professional development, Squadron Leader Lindsay said the lessons from Operation Kudu would stay with him throughout his career.
"In leadership, it's honesty and building a strong team based on transparency which achieves the desired outcomes," he said.
"I'm forever learning from others and to be recognised in this manner is truly both an honour and a testament to the whole Op Kudu team."
