Air Marshal SP Dharkar assumed charge today as the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) at Air Headquarters in New Delhi. An experienced officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Air Marshal Dharkar brings with him an illustrious career spanning nearly four decades.
Commissioned in the fighter stream in 1985, Air Marshal Dharkar is an alumnus of several prestigious military institutions, including the Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), National Defence Academy (NDA), Defence Services Staff College, and the US Air War College. His extensive training and leadership experience have shaped his distinguished service record.
During his career, Air Marshal Dharkar has held several key appointments. He commanded a frontline fighter unit, showcasing his operational acumen in the most challenging environments. Notably, he served as the first Director General of the Defence Space Agency, where he was instrumental in shaping India's defense capabilities in space.
Prior to his appointment as VCAS, Air Marshal Dharkar was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Eastern Air Command (EAC), where he played a critical role in maintaining the security and operational readiness of the IAF in the eastern sector.
As the Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Dharkar is expected to further strengthen the IAF's strategic and operational capabilities. His vast experience in air operations, space defense, and leadership will be pivotal in shaping the future trajectory of the IAF.