In a ceremonial handover steeped in military tradition, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor officially assumed command as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command (SWAC) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) today. The transition ceremony was held at the SWAC headquarters in Sector 9, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, where Air Marshal Kapoor was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour.
Air Marshal Kapoor succeeds Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, who has taken over as the 49th Vice Chief of the Air Staff at Air Headquarters, New Delhi. During his tenure as AOC-in-C from May 2023 to April 2025, Tiwari played a pivotal role in operational preparedness and strategic development within SWAC. A decorated officer, Tiwari’s service includes contributions to HAL Tejas flight testing and diplomatic tenure as Air Attaché in France. His awards include the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2025), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2022), and Vayu Sena Medal (2008).
Air Marshal Kapoor, who previously served as the AOC-in-C of the Training Command since May 2024, brings extensive operational, strategic, and international experience. His past roles include commanding a fighter squadron in the Central Sector, leading a key air base in the Western Sector, and serving as Air Defence Commander at SWAC. He also held high-level staff positions at Air Headquarters and served as Defence Attaché in Pakistan. He is a recipient of the Vayu Sena Medal (2008) and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2022).
Established in 1980, the South Western Air Command oversees critical air operations across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra, including Pune. Initially based in Jodhpur, the headquarters shifted to Gandhinagar in 1998 to accommodate operational expansion. SWAC is instrumental in air defense and civil coordination, especially during natural disasters such as floods.
The ceremony reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s dedication to discipline, tradition, and operational excellence. SWAC’s proximity to the upcoming Chiloda command complex—just 7 km away—signals continued growth in capability and infrastructure for southwestern air operations.
This leadership transition marks a renewed focus on strengthening India’s air defense architecture and strategic presence in the region.
