Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor will assume charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force on January 1, 2026, marking a key leadership transition at the apex level of the service.
Currently serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command (SWAC), Air Marshal Kapoor brings with him extensive operational, command, and combat leadership experience.
Key Role in Operation Sindoor
Air Marshal Kapoor was awarded the Sarvottam Yudha Seva Medal (SYSM) for his exemplary leadership during Operation Sindoor earlier this year. As AOC-in-C, SWAC, he commanded air operations during the May 6–10, 2025 window, when the Indian Air Force carried out multiple precision strikes on Pakistani air bases, inflicting significant damage and reinforcing India’s deterrence posture.
Distinguished Career and Professional Credentials
Commissioned into the Fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986, Air Marshal Kapoor is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Fighter Combat Leader, with over 3,400 hours of flying experience on a range of frontline aircraft.
He is an alumnus of premier military institutions, including the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and the National Defence College—reflecting a strong blend of operational expertise and strategic acumen.
Leadership at the Helm
As Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping force structure, capability development, operational planning, and modernisation initiatives, as the Indian Air Force continues its transformation amid evolving regional and global security challenges.
His appointment underscores the Indian Air Force’s emphasis on combat-tested leadership, jointmanship, and strategic vision at the highest levels of command.
