Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Takes Charge as CAS, Emphasizes Operational Readiness and Self-Reliance

New IAF Chief outlines vision for a stronger, self-reliant force amidst evolving geopolitical challenges.

At a ceremony held today at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh formally assumed command as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS). With a distinguished career spanning four decades, Air Chief Marshal Singh succeeds Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, taking charge of the Indian Air Force (IAF) at a critical time of evolving global security dynamics.

Commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF on December 21, 1984, the CAS is a highly decorated officer and a graduate of prestigious institutions like the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and National Defence College. He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot with over 5,000 hours of service flying across a range of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft.

Operational Experience and Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Air Chief Marshal Singh has held various operational and leadership roles. Notably, he commanded a MiG-27 squadron and served as Air Officer Commanding of a key airbase. As a test pilot, he led the MiG-29 Upgrade Project Management Team in Moscow and served as Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre, where he oversaw the testing of the indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft. His staff appointments included Air Defence Commander at HQ South Western Air Command and Senior Air Staff Officer at Eastern Air Command. Before assuming the role of CAS, he was serving as Vice Chief of the Air Staff.

In recognition of his outstanding service, the CAS has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM).

Addressing the Air Force and Strategic Vision

In his address to the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Singh expressed deep honor in being entrusted with the leadership of one of the world's most formidable air forces. He extended warm greetings to Air Warriors, Non-Combatants (Enrolled), DSC personnel, civilians, and their families, emphasizing his confidence in their continued dedication to maintaining the IAF's operational readiness.

Acknowledging the contributions of air veterans, the new CAS attributed the IAF's success to their visionary leadership. Looking ahead, he emphasized a few key focus areas, urging commanders to foster nurturing leadership and promote jointness and cohesion within the force. He also highlighted the importance of building a "Sashakt, Saksham, and Atmanirbhar" (Empowered, Capable, and Self-Reliant) IAF, aligning with India's national goals of self-sufficiency in defense.

Ensuring Readiness in a Changing Geopolitical Landscape

Given the current global and regional security environment, the CAS stressed the importance of operational vigilance, deterrence, and readiness. "It is important that the IAF remains operationally capable, ever vigilant, and a credible deterrence," he said, urging the force to remain adaptable and prepared in light of uncertain geopolitical situations.

In conclusion, Air Chief Marshal Singh urged all Air Warriors to uphold the proud traditions of the Indian Air Force, reiterating the IAF's motto, "Touch the Sky with Glory."