Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari retired as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 31 December 2025, marking the conclusion of an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades. Superannuating from active service, the Air Marshal leaves behind a legacy of operational excellence, leadership, and critical contributions to India’s air power capabilities.
A Distinguished Career in the Indian Air Force
Commissioned on 07 June 1986 as a Flying Pilot in the fighter stream, Air Marshal Tiwari amassed over 3,600 hours of flying experience on a wide range of aircraft. A Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, he combined operational flying with deep technical expertise throughout his career.
He is also a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA, reflecting his strong grounding in strategic and operational studies.
Key Operational and Strategic Contributions
Air Marshal Tiwari held several critical command and staff appointments, contributing significantly to the evolution of India’s combat and testing capabilities. His notable professional milestones include:
-
Serving as Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington
-
Playing a key role in the operational testing of advanced weapons and systems
-
Operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in 1999, a major force multiplier for precision strikes
-
Close involvement in flight testing and development of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, a cornerstone of India’s indigenous defence aviation efforts
His international exposure included serving as Air Attaché at Paris from 2013 to 2016, strengthening defence cooperation and strategic engagement with France.
Senior Leadership Roles at Air Headquarters and Commands
During the latter part of his career, Air Marshal Tiwari occupied several of the Indian Air Force’s most senior leadership positions, including:
-
Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects)
-
Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans)
-
Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air Headquarters (VB)
-
Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, South Western Air Command
-
Vice Chief of the Air Staff, overseeing operational preparedness, capability development, and strategic planning of the IAF
These appointments placed him at the heart of policy formulation, force modernisation, and operational readiness.
Decorations and Honours
In recognition of his exceptional and distinguished service to the nation, Air Marshal Tiwari was conferred with several prestigious decorations:
-
Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal (2025) – for distinguished service in operations
-
Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2025)
-
Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (2022)
-
Vayusena Medal (2008)
These honours underscore his sustained contributions across operational, strategic, and leadership domains.
Conclusion
The retirement of Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the Indian Air Force’s leadership. A combat pilot, test aviator, strategist, and commander, his career reflects unwavering commitment to national security, indigenisation, and operational excellence. As he steps down as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, the IAF bids farewell to a leader whose service has significantly strengthened India’s air power and defence preparedness.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
