Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, has taken over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command, with the handover taking place on November 1, 2026. His assumption of charge brings a senior fighter officer with more than three decades of service to one of the IAF’s key operational formations.
Career Background and Operational Experience
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Air Marshal Deswal was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force in June 1989. Over the course of his career, he has flown various fighter aircraft and accumulated more than 3,200 hours of flying experience.
His service record includes command of a frontline Sukhoi Su-30 fighter squadron as well as two premier air bases. These appointments placed him in roles connected with air operations, combat readiness and leadership at the unit level.
He has also held several staff appointments, where he contributed to operational planning, administration and broader service effectiveness within the Indian Air Force.
Previous Appointment and Specialised Roles
Before moving to the Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Deswal served as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at the South Western Air Command. In that role, he was involved in operational preparedness and the coordination of major air activities within the command’s area of responsibility.
He is described as a specialist in strike aircraft and air defence operations and is also a qualified Pilot Attack Instructor. Along with his NDA background, he is an alumnus of the National Defence College.
His professional experience also includes a diplomatic posting as the Air Attaché at the Embassy of India in Pakistan. In addition, he served as Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters.
Recognition and Succession
For his service and contributions, Air Marshal Deswal has been awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Vayu Sena Medal (VM). These honours are listed in recognition of his distinguished career in the Indian Air Force.
He succeeds Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia, who assumed charge as Vice Chief of the Air Staff on November 1, 2026.
The Eastern Air Command is headquartered in Shillong and is responsible for safeguarding India’s eastern airspace while maintaining operational readiness along the eastern and northeastern frontiers. Air Marshal Deswal’s appointment places a seasoned fighter aviator in charge of a formation of major strategic importance.
