Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, superannuated from the Indian Air Force on December 31, 2025, concluding over four decades of illustrious service marked by operational excellence, leadership, and technological advancement.
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Commissioned on June 7, 1986 in the fighter stream, Air Marshal Tiwari is a highly accomplished fighter pilot, Qualified Flying Instructor, and Experimental Test Pilot, with over 3,600 hours of flying experience across a wide range of aircraft. An alumnus of the US Air Command and Staff College, his career seamlessly blended operational flying with strategic and technical leadership.
Distinguished Operational and Command Career
Throughout his service, Air Marshal Tiwari held a series of pivotal command and staff appointments. He served as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command, and earlier as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air Headquarters. His key appointments also included Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects) and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans), where he played a major role in force modernisation and capability development.
A significant highlight of his operational career was during the Kargil Operations (1999), where he was instrumental in operationalising the Litening Laser Designation Pod, substantially enhancing the Indian Air Force’s precision strike capability. He was also closely involved in multiple phases of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) flight testing, contributing to India’s indigenous aerospace journey.
Air Marshal Tiwari additionally served as Air Attaché at Paris (2013–2016), strengthening international defence cooperation, and as Directing Staff at both the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, shaping future military leaders.
Honours and Decorations
In recognition of his exceptional service to the nation, Air Marshal Tiwari was conferred several prestigious awards:
- Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal (2025) – for distinguished service in operations
- Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2025)
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2022)
- Vayu Sena Medal (2008)
A Legacy of Excellence
As Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari played a critical role in policy formulation, operational planning, and the IAF’s transformation amid evolving security challenges. His retirement marks the end of an era defined by professionalism, technical mastery, and unwavering commitment to national security.
The Indian Air Force salutes Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari for his distinguished service and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.
