Indian Air Force Chief - Role, History, and Current Leadership
The Indian Air Force (IAF) continues to be a cornerstone of India’s defence might, securing the nation’s airspace and deterring threats with swift precision. At the top of this formidable force is the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) — a position of immense responsibility and strategic importance.
In this blog, we delve deep into the role of the Indian Air Force Chief, the history of the position, key responsibilities, and the current chief – Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who took over the reins in 2024.
Who is the Indian Air Force Chief?
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) is the senior-most officer in the Indian Air Force and holds the four-star rank of Air Chief Marshal. This role involves comprehensive oversight of air operations, strategic planning, force modernization, and representing the IAF at national and international levels.
Meet the Current Indian Air Force Chief
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh (2024–Present)
Quick Facts:
Name: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, PVSM, AVSM
Position: 28th Chief of the Air Staff
Took Charge: 30 September 2024
Preceded by: Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari
Service Commissioned: 21 December 1984 into the Fighter Stream
Career Highlights:
Former Vice Chief of the Air Staff (47th in history)
Served as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command
Senior Air Staff Officer, Eastern Air Command
Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor
Over 5,000 hours of flying on multiple aircraft types – both fixed and rotary wing
Education:
National Defence Academy (NDA)
Defence Services Staff College (DSSC)
National Defence College (NDC)
Key Responsibilities of the Indian Air Force Chief
The Chief of the Air Staff has a wide spectrum of duties, including:
1. Strategic Leadership
Formulates national air defence policy in coordination with the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
2. Operational Oversight
Ensures combat readiness, aerial surveillance, air base operations, and emergency preparedness.
3. Procurement & Modernization
Leads technological upgrades in aircraft, drones, radars, and weapons systems.
4. Personnel & Training
Oversees recruitment, training institutions, and career progression of Air Force personnel.
5. International Collaboration
Represents India in global military forums, air drills, and bilateral/multilateral air exercises.
How is the IAF Chief Appointed?
Appointed by: Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), led by the Prime Minister
Term: 3 years or until age 62 (whichever comes first)
Eligibility: Senior-most air marshal with extensive operational and administrative experience
Historic Chiefs of Air Staff - Indian Air Force Chief
| Name | Tenure | Notable Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee | 1954–1960 | First Indian CAS, laid modern IAF foundations |
| Air Chief Marshal Arjan Singh | 1964–1969 | Led IAF during the 1965 war; only Marshal of IAF |
| Air Chief Marshal B. S. Dhanoa | 2016–2019 | Key strategist behind Balakot airstrike |
| Air Chief Marshal V. R. Chaudhari | 2021–2024 | Strengthened IAF’s combat infrastructure |
Marshal of the Indian Air Force – A Unique Honour
Arjan Singh remains the only officer in history to be awarded the rank of Marshal of the Indian Air Force
It is a five-star ceremonial rank, awarded for extraordinary service and leadership
Role in the Joint Defence Leadership
The IAF Chief works closely with the:
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
Chief of the Army Staff
Chief of the Naval Staff
Together, they form India’s top strategic defence command structure, advising on war preparedness, resource distribution, and joint operations.
With the appointment of Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, the Indian Air Force enters a new era of innovation, preparedness, and strength. As a highly experienced test pilot and seasoned leader, ACM Singh brings a wealth of operational knowledge and strategic insight to India’s air defence.
As India continues to expand its global presence and defence capabilities, the role of the IAF Chief becomes increasingly vital to securing peace, maintaining readiness, and elevating India’s position in aerospace power.
FAQs: Indian Air Force Chief
Q1. Who is the current Chief of Air Staff of India?
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh (since 30 September 2024)
Q2. What rank does the IAF Chief hold?
Four-star rank of Air Chief Marshal
Q3. Who appoints the IAF Chief?
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister
Q4. What is the term of the IAF Chief?
Up to 3 years or till the age of 62, whichever comes first
Q5. Who was the first Indian IAF Chief?
Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee (1954–1960)
Also Read Ranks in Indian Air Force