In the skies of India’s defense forces, few names command as much respect as Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari. With a decorated career spanning more than 37 years, he represents the epitome of courage, leadership, and technical brilliance in the Indian Air Force (IAF). As of May 2, 2025, he will assume the role of Vice Chief of the Air Staff, the second-highest position in the IAF—a testament to a career marked by relentless dedication and operational excellence. He will be taking over the position of Retired Air Marshal SP Dharkar.
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Here are some interesting facts about him:
1. Distinguished Career and Technical Prowess
Air Marshal Tiwari has clocked over 3,600 hours of flying on an array of fighter jets, notably the Mirage-2000. As a qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot, he has demonstrated a rare blend of instructional skill and pioneering aeronautical expertise—attributes critical to the IAF’s modern combat capabilities.
2. Command and Leadership Roles
Throughout his service, he has taken on several high-impact roles:
- Commanding Officer of No. 1 Squadron (Mirage-2000)
- Station Commander
- Chief Test Pilot at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment
- Air Attache at the Indian Embassy in Paris
- Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command
Each role reflects his ability to lead with precision, mentor with purpose, and deliver results even in high-pressure environments.
3. Academic Distinction
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Tiwari graduated as the President Gold Medallist, awarded to the best all-round cadet of the course. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for his career in both strategic leadership and advanced operational roles.
4. Contributions in Combat and Innovation
Notably, he played a key role in the Kargil conflict, participating in several vital missions. His deep experience with the Mirage-2000 and his involvement in testing indigenous platforms like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft underline his contributions to both wartime operations and long-term capability development for the IAF.
5. Awards and Honors
Air Marshal Tiwari’s service has been recognized with prestigious awards:
- Vayu Sena Medal – for devotion to duty and operational success without a single accident.
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) – awarded in 2022 for distinguished service of the highest order.
6. International Diplomacy and Representation
In his role as Air Attache in France, he acted as a key liaison in defense cooperation, furthering India’s strategic interests abroad. His tenure reflected the trust the IAF placed in his diplomatic skills and professionalism.
What His Role Entails?
With his appointment as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Tiwari is set to steer the IAF through a new chapter—one that emphasizes modernization, indigenous capability development, and strategic deterrence.
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari exemplifies what it means to lead with honor, fly with skill, and serve with unwavering dedication. As the Indian Air Force prepares for the challenges of the future, his leadership ensures that the skies remain secure and the force continues to evolve with strength and integrity.
