New Delhi, Nov 1 Air Marshal Mehtab Singh Deswal, a fighter pilot with a flying experience of over 3,200 hours on a number of aircraft, assumed charge on Sunday as the new air officer commanding-in-chief of the Eastern Air Command, officials said.
The air officer is a specialist in strike aircraft and air defence roles, and a qualified pilot attack instructor, the Defence Ministry said.
Prior to taking over as the air officer commanding-in-chief (AOC in-C) of the Eastern Air Command, the air officer held the appointment of senior air staff officer (SASO) at the South Western Air Command, it said.
Air Marshal Deswal was commissioned in the flying branch of the IAF as a fighter pilot on June 14, 1989.
He has a flying experience of over 3,200 hours on a number of fighter aircraft, it said.
The air officer is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and National Defence College.
During his career, Air Marshal Deswal has held several field and staff appointments, including air officer commanding of two flying bases and commanding officer of a fighter squadron.
He was posted at the mission of India in Pakistan as the air attaché. The air officer has also served as director general (weapon systems) at Air Headquarters, the ministry said.
In recognition of his distinguished service, he has been awarded with Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Vayu Sena Medal.
(PTI News)
