Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Take Charge of East Air Comd

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Takes Over as AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Takes Charge of Eastern Air Command

Posted on 02 Nov 2026: Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, has assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Eastern Air Command (EAC), Indian Air Force, on 1 November 2026.

His appointment marks an important leadership transition for the Eastern Air Command, which plays a significant role in safeguarding India's eastern airspace and maintaining operational readiness.

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal Assumes New Appointment

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal officially took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command on 1 November 2026.

With more than three decades of distinguished service in the Indian Air Force, the Air Marshal brings extensive operational experience, professional expertise and leadership capabilities to his new assignment.

His career includes important operational and administrative responsibilities at various Air Force formations and Headquarters.

Professional Career and Flying Experience

Air Marshal Deswal was commissioned into the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot on 14 June 1989.

He has accumulated more than 3,200 hours of flying experience on several fighter aircraft. He is a specialist in strike aircraft and air defence roles and is also a qualified Pilot Attack Instructor.

His extensive flying experience and operational knowledge reflect his long-standing contribution to the Indian Air Force.

Educational Qualifications and Military Training

Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal is an alumnus of two prestigious defence institutions:

National Defence Academy (NDA)

National Defence College (NDC)

His professional military education and training have contributed to his experience in operational planning, strategic affairs and defence leadership.

Important Appointments During His Career

Throughout his distinguished career, Air Marshal Deswal has held several important command and staff appointments in the Indian Air Force.

Some of his notable assignments include:

Air Officer Commanding: Commanded two flying bases.

Commanding Officer: Served as the Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron.

Air Attaché, Pakistan: Served at the Embassy of India in Pakistan as Air Attaché.

Director General (Weapon Systems): Held this important position at Air Headquarters.

Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO): Served at Headquarters South Western Air Command (SWAC) before assuming his present appointment.

These assignments demonstrate his broad experience across operational command, international defence engagement and senior-level staff responsibilities.

Awards and Recognitions

In recognition of his distinguished service to the nation and the Indian Air Force, Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal has received the following prestigious military decorations:

Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)

Vayu Sena Medal (VSM)

These awards recognise his distinguished service and contributions during his military career.

About Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force

The Eastern Air Command (EAC) is one of the major operational commands of the Indian Air Force. Its headquarters is located in Shillong, Meghalaya.

The command plays an important role in India's air defence preparedness, operational coordination and protection of the country's eastern region.

Under the leadership of Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, the Eastern Air Command will continue its responsibilities in maintaining operational readiness and supporting the Indian Air Force's mission of protecting national airspace.

Conclusion

The appointment of Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, AVSM, VM, as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command marks a new chapter in his distinguished military career.

His extensive fighter flying experience, command appointments, professional qualifications and service recognitions reflect his contribution to the Indian Air Force.

His new responsibility comes with the important task of leading the Eastern Air Command and strengthening India's air defence preparedness.

Source: Information based on the details provided in the announcement concerning the appointment of Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general news and informational purposes.

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