Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor has (SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, VM) assumed charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force on January 1. He took over the role at Air Headquarters, marking an important leadership change in the force. He succeeded Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, who retired after completing 40 years of dedicated service to the nation.
Before taking this new responsibility, Air Marshal Kapoor served as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Training Command. His appointment brings vast experience in operations, training and strategy to the top level of the Indian Air Force.
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Long Career in the Indian Air Force
Air Marshal Kapoor is a graduate of the National Defence Academy and was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in 1986. He is a highly skilled fighter pilot, a qualified flying instructor, and a fighter combat leader.
During his long flying career, he flew all variants of the MiG-21 and MiG-29 aircraft. He has logged more than 3,400 flying hours on different combat and trainer aircraft.
Training and Strategy
Air Marshal Kapoor played an important role in shaping future officers of the Indian Air Force. As Chief Instructor (Flying) at the Air Force Academy, he helped in the induction and operationalisation of the PC-7 Mk II aircraft, which is now a major training platform for young pilots.
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He also served as Directing Staff at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. He is an alumnus of both the Defence Services Staff College and the National Defence College, reflecting his strong academic and strategic background.
In addition to operational and training roles, he handled major staff and strategic appointments. These included Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations (Strategy), Air Defence Commander at South Western Air Command, Senior Air Staff Officer at Central Air Command, and Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air Headquarters.
He also served as Defence Attaché to Pakistan, adding diplomatic experience to his profile. Later in his career, he led South Western Air Command as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief.
Awards and Recognitions
The Indian Air Force has honoured Air Marshal Kapoor with many top awards. He got the Vayu Sena Medal in 2008 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2022. In 2025, he received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal for his great service.
