Air Marshal Tejinder Singh Takes Charge of South Western Air Command

The Indian Air Force witnessed an important leadership transition at the beginning of 2026. Tejinder Singh has assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command. His appointment reflects the Indian Air Force’s emphasis on operational experience, strategic planning, and strong leadership at command level.

Why in the News?

Air Marshal Tejinder Singh took over as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command on January 1, 2026. After assuming charge, he paid tribute to fallen soldiers by laying a wreath at the war memorial, marking the start of his new command.

About the Appointment

• The South Western Air Command is one of the most operationally significant commands of the Indian Air Force.
• As AOC-in-C, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh will be responsible for air operations, preparedness, and strategic planning in a sensitive region.
• His prior experience as a command head and senior strategist makes him well-suited for this crucial role.

Career Background and Education

• Air Marshal Tejinder Singh is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA).
• He was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on June 13, 1987.
• He is a Category ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor and has accumulated over 4,500 hours of flying experience, reflecting a long and distinguished flying career.

Key Operational Commands Held

• During his service, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh has commanded a fighter squadron, a radar station, and a premier fighter base.
• He also served as Air Officer Commanding, Jammu and Kashmir, a region of high operational sensitivity.
• These roles provided him hands-on experience in air combat operations, air defence, and command leadership.

Important Staff Appointments

• His career includes several critical staff roles.
• These include senior positions at Air Headquarters, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, and Command Headquarters.
• Notable appointments include Assistant Chief of the Air Staff for Operations (Offensive and Strategy), Senior Air Staff Officer at Eastern Air Command,
• and Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, reflecting deep involvement in operational planning and policy formulation.

Previous Role Before Current Appointment

• Before assuming charge of South Western Air Command, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh served as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Training Command.
• In this role, he was responsible for shaping training standards and professional development across the Indian Air Force, ensuring readiness of future air warriors.

Awards and Honours

• In recognition of his distinguished service, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh has received prestigious military decorations.
• He was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal in 2007 for devotion to duty.
• In 2022, he received the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, one of the highest peacetime honours, awarded by the President of India.

Key Summary at a Glance

Question

Q. Who assumed charge as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command on January 1, 2026?

A) Air Marshal Raghunath Nambiar
B) Air Marshal Tejinder Singh
C) Air Marshal Sandeep Singh
D) Air Vice Marshal Anil Chopra