November 1, 2026: Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command on November 1, 2026, bringing with him extensive operational experience and a distinguished career spanning more than three decades.
An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), Air Marshal Deswal was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force in June 1989. An experienced fighter pilot, he has accumulated over 3,200 hours of flying experience on various fighter aircraft during his illustrious career.
Throughout his service, Air Marshal Deswal has held several important operational and command appointments. He has commanded a frontline Sukhoi Su-30 fighter squadron and two premier air bases, gaining extensive experience in air operations, combat readiness and operational leadership.
The senior officer has also served in several key staff appointments, contributing to operational planning, administration and the overall effectiveness of the Indian Air Force.
Prior to assuming command of the Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Deswal served as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at the South Western Air Command, where he was involved in overseeing operational preparedness and coordinating major air activities within the command’s area of responsibility.
A specialist in strike aircraft and air defence operations, Air Marshal Deswal is also a qualified Pilot Attack Instructor. Besides the National Defence Academy, he is an alumnus of the National Defence College.
His distinguished career includes an important diplomatic assignment as the Air Attaché at the Embassy of India in Pakistan. He has also served as Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters, contributing to the Indian Air Force’s operational and weapons-related capabilities.
In recognition of his distinguished service and contributions to the Indian Air Force, he has been awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Vayu Sena Medal (VM).
Air Marshal Deswal succeeds Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, who assumed charge as Vice Chief of the Air Staff on November 1, 2026.
The Eastern Air Command, headquartered in Shillong, plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s eastern airspace and maintaining operational preparedness along the country’s strategically important eastern and northeastern frontiers.
Air Marshal Deswal’s appointment marks a new chapter in the leadership of the Eastern Air Command, bringing extensive fighter aviation experience, operational expertise and senior command experience to one of the Indian Air Force’s most strategically significant formations.
