Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia on Saturday assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command (EAC), one of the country’s most strategically significant operational formations. His appointment marks the culmination of a distinguished career spanning more than three decades in military aviation, command, and strategic leadership.
Extensive Operational Flying Experience
An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA), Air Marshal Walia was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on June 11, 1988. Over the years, he has built an enviable flying profile, qualifying on multiple frontline combat aircraft that have formed the backbone of the IAF’s fighter fleet.
He is qualified to fly all variants of the MiG-21, MiG-23, MiG-27, Jaguar, and the Su-30 MKI. With over 3,200 hours of accident- and incident-free flying, Air Marshal Walia’s career reflects a rare blend of operational excellence and professional discipline.
Leadership Roles Across the IAF
Throughout his career, the Air Marshal has held several key command and staff appointments, shaping both operational readiness and training standards within the force. He has commanded a MiG-27 fighter squadron and later led the elite Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE), which plays a critical role in developing air combat doctrines.
He also served as the Air Officer Commanding of a frontline air base, where he was responsible for maintaining high levels of combat preparedness. His credentials include being a Fighter Strike Leader and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner (IRIE), underscoring his deep involvement in pilot training and evaluation.
Strategic and International Exposure
Air Marshal Walia’s experience extends beyond operational flying and command roles. He has completed the Advance Command and Staff Course in the United Kingdom and the National Defence College in Bangladesh, equipping him with a strong strategic outlook.
His international exposure includes serving as Defence Attaché at the Indian embassies in Japan and South Korea, where he played a key role in defence diplomacy and military cooperation. At Air Headquarters, he has held crucial appointments including Air Commodore at the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Training).
Decorations and Recognition
In recognition of his outstanding service, Air Marshal Walia has been awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in 2008 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2018. These honours reflect his sustained contributions to operational effectiveness, leadership, and institutional development within the Indian Air Force.
Before assuming his current role, he served as the Senior Air Staff Officer at Headquarters Eastern Air Command, ensuring continuity and familiarity with the command’s operational priorities.
Eastern Air Command’s Strategic Importance
The Eastern Air Command is responsible for safeguarding India’s eastern airspace and supporting joint operations in a region of growing strategic significance. With Air Marshal Walia at the helm, the command is expected to further strengthen its operational capabilities and integration with other arms of the armed forces.
Official details regarding the appointment were shared by the Press Information Bureau, while further information on the command structure is available on the Indian Air Force’s official portal.
