Air Marshal Surat Singh has officially assumed the role of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force, as of October 1, 2024. An accomplished officer with an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, Air Marshal Surat Singh brings a wealth of operational expertise and leadership experience to his new appointment.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Surat Singh was commissioned into the Fighter Stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986. Over the years, he has flown a variety of fighter aircraft, including the MiG-21, MiG-29, and Su-30 MKI, amassing over 2,900 flying hours. His educational credentials include advanced courses at the Command and Staff College in Australia and the National Defence College in Bangladesh.
Throughout his career, Air Marshal Surat Singh has held a series of key command and staff appointments. These include commanding a MiG-29 squadron, the prestigious Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE), and an Air Defence Node. He has also commanded a fighter station and served in various roles at Air Headquarters, including Director at the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI), Principal Director at the Directorate of Personnel (Officers) and Directorate of Operations (Offensive), and Assistant Chief of Air Staff Operations (Space).
Before assuming his current role, Air Marshal Surat Singh was Director General Air Operations at Air Headquarters, bringing extensive operational experience to his leadership of the Eastern Air Command, which is responsible for safeguarding the nation's eastern skies.
For his outstanding service, Air Marshal Surat Singh has been decorated with several prestigious awards, including the Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in 2006, the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2011, and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2015.
With his extensive experience in operational flying, training, and staff roles, Air Marshal Surat Singh is expected to provide strong leadership and strategic direction to the Eastern Air Command.(pr)