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

In the realm of India’s defense forces, Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari stands out as a figure of immense respect and admiration. With a distinguished career that spans over 37 years, he is celebrated for his valor, leadership acumen, and technical expertise within the Indian Air Force (IAF). On May 2, 2025, he is poised to take the helm as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, the second-highest position within the IAF, succeeding Retired Air Marshal SP Dharkar.

Air Marshal Tiwari’s career has been characterized by several notable achievements:

1. Distinguished Career and Technical Prowess
   He has amassed over 3,600 flying hours across various fighter jets, particularly the Mirage-2000. His roles as a qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot showcase his unique combination of teaching prowess and aeronautical innovation—attributes vital for enhancing the IAF’s combat capabilities.

2. Command and Leadership Roles
   Throughout his tenure, Tiwari has held numerous pivotal positions, including:

   • Commanding Officer of No. 1 Squadron (Mirage-2000)
   • Station Commander in various capacities
   • Chief Test Pilot at the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment
   • Air Attache at the Indian Embassy in Paris
   • Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the South Western Air Command
     Each of these roles underscores his ability to lead effectively, mentor future leaders, and achieve operational success under pressure.

3. Academic Distinction
   A distinguished alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Tiwari graduated as the President Gold Medallist, recognizing him as the top all-round cadet in his class. This academic foundation has been pivotal in his ascendance to strategic and operational leadership roles.

4. Contributions in Combat and Innovation
   Tiwari’s military career includes significant contributions during the Kargil conflict, where he participated in essential missions. His extensive experience with the Mirage-2000 and involvement in testing indigenous platforms like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft reflect his dual contributions to both immediate wartime operations and long-term developmental strategies for the IAF.

5. Awards and Honors
   His service has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Vayu Sena Medal, which recognizes his dedication to duty and operational efficiency without incident, and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), awarded in 2022 for exceptional service.

6. International Diplomacy and Representation
   As Air Attache in France, Tiwari played a crucial role in fostering defense cooperation, enhancing India’s strategic interests on the global stage. His tenure in this position highlighted the IAF’s confidence in his diplomatic finesse and professionalism.

With his upcoming role as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Tiwari is set to guide the IAF into a new era marked by modernization, development of indigenous capabilities, and strategic deterrence. His leadership personifies commitment, skill, and unwavering service. As the Indian Air Force gears up for future challenges, Tiwari’s vision and expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the security and evolution of India’s airpower.