Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari Appointed Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force

On May 2, 2025, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari PVSM AVSM VM officially assumed the position of Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force (IAF). A highly decorated officer with over three decades of distinguished service, Air Marshal Tiwari brings with him deep operational expertise, flight testing credentials, and strategic leadership experience crucial for steering the Indian Air Force into the future.

Why in News?

Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari has been appointed as the new Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force on May 2, 2025. His appointment reflects the IAF’s continued emphasis on experienced leadership, modernization, and strategic capability enhancement.

Key Highlights

• Date of Appointment: 02 May 2025
• Position: Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Indian Air Force (IAF)
• Decorations: PVSM (2025), AVSM (2022), VM (2008)
• Flying Experience: Over 3600 hours on various aircraft

Career & Education

• Alumnus of RIMC, Dehradun and National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasala
• President’s Gold Medal recipient (NDA, 1985)
• Commissioned as a Fighter Pilot in the IAF on 7 June 1986
• Graduate of Air Command and Staff College, USA
• Served as Directing Staff at both the IAF Test Pilots’ School and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington

Major Contributions

• Kargil War (1999): Played a key role in the operationalisation of the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod
• LCA Tejas Flight Testing: Instrumental during 2006–09 and 2018–19 in achieving Final Operational Clearance
• Air Attache, Paris (2013–2016): Strengthened international military relations
• Previous Role: Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command

Significance

• Air Marshal Tiwari’s vast expertise in testing indigenous aircraft, leadership in operational roles, and international assignments ensures a strong command at the top level of the IAF. His leadership is expected to further drive modernization efforts, enhance combat readiness, and promote indigenous defence capabilities.