Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann Appointed Senior Air Staff Officer of Western Air Command

In a significant development for the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann has officially taken over as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) of the Western Air Command (WAC). With over three decades of distinguished service, the Air Marshal brings extensive operational, administrative, and strategic experience to one of the IAF’s most crucial operational commands.

Why in News?

The appointment of Air Marshal Jasvir Singh Mann as SASO of Western Air Command on 1st June 2025 is important due to: His decorated service history, including awards like the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and Vayu Sena Medal (VM). His leadership in key roles involving international military exercises and base command. The Western Air Command’s strategic relevance, covering India’s sensitive western frontiers.

Profile and Career Highlights

• Commissioned as a fighter pilot on 16 December 1989.
• Accumulated over 3000 flying hours on multiple fighter aircraft types.
• A qualified Pilot Attack Instructor.

Alumnus of,

• National Defence Academy (NDA)
• Defence Services Staff College (DSSC)
• Royal College of Defence Studies, London

Operational and Command Roles

• Commanded a fighter squadron.
• Served as Chief Operations Officer at a forward base.
• Held post of Air Officer Commanding at a key fighter base.

Strategic Contributions

Directed joint military exercises with,

• Republic of Singapore Air Force (2017)
• United States Air Force (USAF) (2018)

Held roles as,

• Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration
• Air Defence Commander, Central Air Command

Latest Role and Achievements

• Served previously as Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters.

Decorated with,

• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
• Vayu Sena Medal (VM)