The Indian Air Force (IAF) bid a grand farewell to Air Marshal SP Dharkar, who retired on April 30, 2025, after an extraordinary 40-year career marked by operational brilliance, strategic foresight, and contributions to India’s space and air defence capabilities.
Air Marshal Dharkar, who served as the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) since September 30, 2024, was a decorated fighter pilot and military strategist, lauded with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM), and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) for his exemplary service.
A solemn retirement ceremony took place at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, where Dharkar paid tribute to India’s fallen heroes with a wreath-laying at the Amar Jawan Jyoti. He was honored with a ceremonial guard of honor, as senior officers, personnel, and dignitaries gathered to commemorate his legacy.
Throughout his tenure, Air Marshal Dharkar was instrumental in modernizing the IAF and enhancing India’s space warfare readiness. As the first Director General of the Defence Space Agency (DSA), established in 2019, he led key initiatives including IndSpaceEx, a landmark exercise simulating threats to India’s space-based infrastructure. Under his leadership, the DSA laid the groundwork for the deployment of 52 surveillance and communication satellites for India’s armed forces, significantly bolstering national security.
With over 3,600 hours of flying experience, Dharkar held several prestigious appointments, including Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Air Command, overseeing air operations along India’s sensitive eastern frontiers. His academic foundation — from Rashtriya Indian Military College, National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and the U.S. Air War College — further enriched his command and vision.
Air Marshal Dharkar’s retirement comes at a pivotal time, as India navigates evolving geopolitical and space-based security challenges. His strategic acumen and commitment to integrating space technology into military operations have left an indelible mark on India’s defence landscape.
Dharkar’s legacy will continue to guide its trajectory through the complexities of modern warfare.
