An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Shrinivas was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on June 13, 1987. Over the years, he has built an exceptional flying profile, clocking more than 4,200 hours on a wide range of fighter, trainer and utility aircraft.
He is a ‘Category A’ Qualified Flying Instructor and has flown aircraft including the MiG-21, Iskra, Kiran, PC-7 Mk II, HPT-32 and microlight platforms. In addition, he is qualified as a second pilot on Chetak and Cheetah helicopters, reflecting his versatility across fixed-wing and rotary platforms.
Operational Expertise Across Air and Missile Domains
Beyond his flying credentials, Air Marshal Shrinivas brings strong operational expertise. He is a categorised Operations Officer on the Pechora missile system, underlining his exposure to air defence and ground-based combat systems critical to modern air warfare.
His professional journey reflects a rare blend of instructional, operational and command experience, making him uniquely suited to lead the IAF’s training architecture at a time of rapid technological change.
Extensive Command and Instructional Appointments
Throughout his career, the Air Marshal has held several key command appointments. These include serving as Commandant of the Air Force Academy, Air Officer Commanding of a frontline fighter base on the Western border, and head of a premier flying training base.
He has also served as Air Officer Commanding Advance Headquarters Western Air Command at Jaipur and commanded the prestigious Flying Instructors School. His tenure as Commandant of the Institute of Aerospace Safety and Commanding Officer of the Basic Flying Training School further strengthened the IAF’s training ecosystem.
Senior Staff Roles and Strategic Exposure
Air Marshal Shrinivas has also held several important staff appointments, including Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Personnel Officers) and Chief Instructor (Flying) at the Air Force Academy. He has served on operational staff at Headquarters Central Air Command and as Directing Staff at the College of Air Warfare.
Prior to assuming his current role, he was the Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters South Western Air Command, where he contributed to operational planning and force readiness.
Strong Academic Foundation and Decorations
A graduate of the National Defence College, College of Defence Management and Defence Services Staff College, the Air Marshal possesses strong academic credentials. He holds a Master of Philosophy in Defence and Strategic Studies, a Master of Management Studies and a Master of Science in Defence and Strategic Studies.
In recognition of his distinguished service, he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal in 2017 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2024 by the President of India.