Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia has officially taken over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force, effective from February 1, 2026. His appointment marks a significant transition in leadership within one of the key commands of the Indian Air Force.
A distinguished alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Walia was commissioned into the Fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on June 11, 1988. With an extensive background as a highly experienced fighter pilot, he is qualified on a variety of aircraft, including MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, Jaguar, and Su-30 MKI. Over his career, he has logged more than 3,200 hours of accident- and incident-free flying, underscoring his proficiency and commitment to safety in aviation.
Air Marshal Walia’s career spans over three decades during which he has served in various command and staff roles. He has commanded a MiG-27 fighter squadron and led the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE). His command experience extends to a frontline operational air base, demonstrating his capability in high-stakes environments. In addition to these roles, he holds prestigious qualifications, including that of a Fighter Strike Leader and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner.
His academic credentials include advanced training at the Advanced Command and Staff Course in the United Kingdom and the National Defence College in Bangladesh, equipping him with strategic insights necessary for his new role.
In addition to his command experience, Air Marshal Walia has served in important staff positions, including Air Commodore at the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Training) at Air Headquarters, and Air Defence Commander at Headquarters Western Air Command. Notably, he also contributed to international defense cooperation as the Defence Attaché to Japan and South Korea. Before his current appointment, he served as the Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters Eastern Air Command, further enhancing his understanding of the command dynamics.
His exemplary service has not gone unnoticed; Air Marshal Walia has been honored with several awards, including the Vayu Sena Medal in 2008 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2018, reflecting his dedication and contributions to the Indian Air Force.
He succeeds Air Marshal Surat Singh, who completed 39 years of dedicated service to the nation and superannuated on January 31, 2026. As he steps into this crucial role, Air Marshal Walia’s extensive experience and leadership are expected to guide the Eastern Air Command into new realms of operational excellence.
