Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has officially assumed the role of Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) during a ceremony at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan) on September 30, 2024.
Commissioned on December 21, 1984, into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Chief Marshal AP Singh is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College, and National Defence College. With over 5,000 flying hours under his belt, he is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot, having flown a variety of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft.
Throughout his distinguished career, he has held several key positions. He commanded a MiG-27 Squadron and served as Air Officer Commanding at an airbase. Notably, he led the MiG-29 Upgrade Project Management Team in Moscow and was the Project Director (Flight Test) at the National Flight Test Centre for the Tejas aircraft. His career, spanning four decades, includes staff appointments such as Air Defence Commander at HQ South Western Air Command and Senior Air Staff Officer at Eastern Air Command. Prior to becoming CAS, he held the position of Vice Chief of the Air Staff.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in recognition of his exceptional service.
In his address to the IAF, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh expressed his gratitude for being entrusted with the leadership of the Indian Air Force. He extended warm greetings to all Air Warriors, Non-Combatants (Enrolled), DSC personnel, civilians, and their families, emphasizing his confidence in their unwavering support to maintain the IAF’s high operational standards. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the contributions of air veterans, attributing much of the IAF’s success to their leadership.
Focusing on the theme of building a stronger, more capable, and self-reliant IAF, he called on Commanders to foster a leadership style that nurtures collaboration and unity. In light of current global uncertainties, he stressed the importance of the IAF remaining operationally ready, vigilant, and a credible force of deterrence. Concluding his speech, the CAS urged all personnel to uphold the legacy of the Air Force and continue striving to “Touch the Sky with Glory.”
