Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Takes Command of Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command

The Indian Air Force has appointed Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, as the new Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of its Eastern Air Command. He officially assumed charge of the important position on November 1, 2026, marking a new leadership transition within one of the IAF’s major operational commands.

Air Marshal Deswal brings extensive operational experience and a distinguished military career to his new responsibility. Commissioned into the Indian Air Force’s flying branch as a fighter pilot on June 14, 1989, he has accumulated more than 3,200 hours of flying experience across various fighter aircraft. His professional specialisations include strike aircraft operations and air defence roles. He is also a qualified Pilot Attack Instructor.

Before taking charge of Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal Deswal served as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at the Headquarters of South Western Air Command. His previous assignments reflect considerable experience in both operational leadership and strategic responsibilities within the Indian Air Force.

Throughout his career, he has held several important command and staff appointments. These include serving as Air Officer Commanding at two flying bases and commanding a fighter squadron. He has also represented India as an Air Attaché at the Indian Embassy in Pakistan, providing him with experience in military diplomacy and international defence engagement.

In addition to his operational assignments, Air Marshal Deswal served as the Director General (Weapon Systems) at Air Headquarters, where his responsibilities were associated with an important area of the Indian Air Force’s capabilities.

His professional achievements and contributions to the service have been recognised with two distinguished military honours: the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Vayu Sena Medal (VM). He is also an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the National Defence College.

His appointment places an experienced fighter pilot and senior military leader at the helm of Eastern Air Command. The command holds an important position within the Indian Air Force’s organisational structure, and its leadership plays a significant role in overseeing its operational and administrative responsibilities.

With decades of experience in fighter operations, command appointments and senior-level defence management, Air Marshal Deswal takes on his new assignment with a distinguished record of service to the Indian Air Force.