Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Takes Over Eastern Air Command

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, officially assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on November 1, 2026. He steps into this critical role after serving as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Headquarters South Western Air Command.

He brings over three decades of military experience into his new office. His background covers strike fighter operations, air defense management, weapon systems development, and high-level command leadership.

Early Flying Career and Flight Experience

The Indian Air Force commissioned Air Marshal Deswal into its Flying Branch as a fighter pilot on June 14, 1989. Over his distinguished aviation career, he has accumulated over 3,200 hours of flight time across various fighter jet platforms.

His operational expertise covers strike aircraft operations and air defense missions. He also earned the prestigious qualification of Pilot Attack Instructor, demonstrating his advanced skills in tactical flight training and air combat tactics.

Higher Education and Strategic Training

Air Marshal Deswal completed his military education at top defense institutions:

• National Defence Academy (NDA): Completed initial military leadership and officer cadet training.
• National Defence College (NDC): Attended advanced training programs in national security strategy, defense management, and international relations.

Key Command, Staff, and Diplomatic Leadership Roles

Throughout his career, Air Marshal Deswal has held vital operational, administrative, and diplomatic positions:

1. Air Base Commander: Served as Air Officer Commanding for two operational flying bases.
2. Squadron Commander: Led a frontline fighter squadron as Commanding Officer.
3. Diplomatic Assignment: Represented India's defense interests as the Air Attaché at the Embassy of India in Pakistan.
4. Air Headquarters Leadership: Managed weapon procurement and technical operations as Director General (Weapon Systems).
5. Senior Staff Leadership: Served as Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Headquarters South Western Air Command right before his current promotion.

Recognized Military Honors

The Government of India has awarded Air Marshal Deswal two major military honors for outstanding service to the nation:

• Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM): Awarded for distinguished service of an exceptional order.
• Vayu Sena Medal (VM): Awarded for individual devotion to duty and professional courage in air force operations.

Role of the Eastern Air Command

Headquartered in Shillong, Meghalaya, the Eastern Air Command guards India's eastern airspace and maintains constant air defense readiness across the country's eastern and northeastern borders. As AOC-in-C, Air Marshal Deswal directs all air operations, tactical readiness programs, and administrative functions across this strategic theater.

Quick Facts: Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal