Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, a seasoned fighter pilot with over 5,000 hours of flying experience, has been appointed as the new Chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF). He will take over the role from Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, who retires on September 30, 2024. Currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Singh will assume the top position in the rank of Air Chief Marshal, effective the afternoon of September 30.
A Strategic Leadership Transition
The announcement of Air Marshal Singh’s appointment was made by the Ministry of Defence, emphasizing the significance of this leadership change as the IAF faces evolving regional security challenges, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. His appointment comes at a crucial time when the IAF is focusing on enhancing its capabilities through modernization and procurement of new fighter fleets, as the current strength of fighter squadrons has dwindled to around 30, significantly lower than the authorized strength of 42.
One of Air Marshal Singh’s key priorities as the new Chief will be advancing the IAF’s modernization agenda, particularly in the acquisition of advanced fighter jets. He has been a vocal advocate for accelerating domestic defense production without compromising national security, a stance he reiterated in July during an event addressing delays in military projects, including the delivery of Tejas jets.
Distinguished Career and Key Contributions
Born on October 27, 1964, Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh was commissioned into the IAF’s fighter pilot stream in December 1984. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and National Defence College, he has built an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades. His extensive experience includes commanding various operational fighter squadrons and a frontline airbase. He has also held numerous important staff and instructional positions, including the role of Senior Air Staff Officer at Eastern Air Command.
As a Qualified Flying Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot, Air Marshal Singh has accumulated significant expertise in both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. His international experience includes leading the MiG-29 Upgrade Project Management Team in Moscow, Russia, and overseeing the flight testing of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas as Project Director at the National Flight Test Centre.
Air Marshal Singh has also played a crucial role in major multinational military exercises, including the recently concluded Tarang Shakti, hosted by the IAF. His leadership in such exercises underscores his strategic vision and operational acumen, essential for navigating the challenges the IAF faces in the current geopolitical landscape.
Advocate for National Security and Self-Reliance
Throughout his career, Air Marshal Singh has been a strong proponent of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. However, he has emphasized that self-reliance must not come at the expense of national security. In his public remarks earlier this year, he urged defense agencies, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), to prioritize timely delivery of crucial military systems to ensure India’s defense preparedness in the face of external threats.
This commitment to both innovation and operational readiness has positioned him as a leading figure in the IAF’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and capabilities. His stance on the importance of balancing domestic production with defense needs has earned him recognition as a forward-thinking military leader.
Awards and Recognition
For his exemplary service, Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), two of India’s highest military honors. These accolades reflect his commitment to excellence, leadership, and dedication to strengthening India’s air defense capabilities.
As he takes on the mantle of Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Singh’s leadership will be instrumental in steering the IAF through its modernization efforts and addressing the security challenges posed by regional dynamics. His strategic insight and extensive experience in defense operations will be crucial in shaping the future of the Indian Air Force.
(With inputs from agencies)
