New Delhi: Air Marshal Tejpal Singh AVSM VM has assumed the appointment of Deputy Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force with effect from August 1, 2026. Marking the occasion, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi and paid tribute to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
Commissioned as a fighter pilot on June 16, 1990, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh brings over 3,500 hours of flying experience to his new role. He is a Category ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, and has held several important operational, command and staff appointments during his distinguished career in the Indian Air Force.
In recognition of his exceptional service, he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal in January 2011 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in January 2021 by the Hon’ble President of India.
Air Marshal Tejpal Singh succeeds Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti SYSM AVSM VM, who retired on July 31, 2026, after completing 39 years of distinguished service to the nation. His appointment comes at a significant time as the Indian Air Force continues to strengthen its operational capabilities and modernisation efforts under experienced leadership.