Assumed office on Saturday, succeeding Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh.
Commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on 6 December 1986.
Logged over 3,300 flight hours on aircraft including Mirage‑2000, MiG variants, Jaguar and transport planes.
Directed the final operational clearance of the Light Combat Aircraft Mk‑I Tejas.
Held commands such as a Mirage‑2000 squadron, Forward Base Support Unit, and Air Force Station Bidar.
Served as Air Defence Commander, Senior Air Staff Officer, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff.
Recipient of four high‑level service medals.
His career spans over four decades, including roles as a fighter pilot, test pilot, and senior commander.
He played a key part in modernising aircraft such as the Jaguar, MiG‑27, and the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas.
He has been honoured with the Vayu Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Param Vishisht Seva Medal.
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