Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari Retires After Glorious IAF Run
Newz Daddy Defence Updates
AIR MARSHAL NARMDESHWAR TIWARI RETIRES AS VICE CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF, INDIAN AIR FORCE
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari retires as Vice Chief of the Air Staff on 31 December 2025, on superannuation from the Indian Air Force (IAF), after completion of four decades of illustrious service to the nation.
His retirement marks the end of a long and respected career that began in the mid-1980s, a time when the Indian Air Force was steadily modernising its fleet and doctrine. Officers with such long service have witnessed major shifts in air power, from older fighter platforms to modern multi-role aircraft and advanced weapon systems. As Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Tiwari played a key role in supporting the Chief of the Air Staff in policy decisions, operational planning and force readiness, making his contribution significant at the highest level of leadership.
Air Marshal Tiwari was commissioned on 07 June 1986 as a Flying Pilot in the fighter stream of the IAF. With over 3600 hours of flying experience on various types of aircraft, the Air Marshal held diverse staff and command appointments.
Being commissioned as a fighter pilot is among the most demanding paths in the Air Force. Accumulating more than 3600 flying hours reflects not only skill but also the trust placed by the service in his abilities. Fighter pilots are trained to operate under high pressure, often in complex and hostile environments. Over the years, such experience shapes leaders who understand both the cockpit and command responsibilities, which is crucial for senior appointments.
In addition to being a Qualified Flying Instructor and an Experimental Test Pilot, the Air Marshal is a graduate of the Air Command and Staff College, USA.
Qualified Flying Instructors are responsible for training young pilots, ensuring flight safety and building strong operational habits from the start of a pilot’s career. Experimental Test Pilots, meanwhile, are involved in pushing aircraft and systems to their limits, a role that demands sharp judgement and technical understanding. Training at the Air Command and Staff College in the United States is considered prestigious and exposes officers to global military thinking, joint operations and strategic planning, adding an international outlook to their leadership.
During his eminent career in uniform, he served as the Directing Staff at the IAF Test Pilots’ School and the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington.
Serving as Directing Staff means shaping the future leadership of the armed forces. Both institutions are known for producing senior commanders and planners. Officers posted there are selected for their experience and ability to guide others. His role ensured that lessons learned from operations and testing were passed on to the next generation of officers.
His extensive field experience encompassed operational testing of various weapons and systems, which included operationalising the ‘Litening’ Laser Designation Pod during the Kargil Operations in the year 1999.
The Kargil conflict was a defining moment for the Indian Air Force, highlighting the importance of precision targeting in high-altitude warfare. The Litening Laser Designation Pod allowed aircraft to accurately identify and strike enemy positions, improving mission success while reducing risk. Being involved in its operational use during such a critical time underlines Air Marshal Tiwari’s direct contribution to combat effectiveness.
He was closely involved in various stages of flight testing of the Light Combat Aircraft.
The Light Combat Aircraft programme is one of India’s most important indigenous defence projects. Flight testing is a long and complex process that ensures safety, performance and reliability. Officers involved in these stages help bridge the gap between designers and operational users. His involvement reflects trust in his technical expertise and understanding of frontline needs.
The Air Marshal served as Air Attache at Paris from 2013 to 2016.
An Air Attache represents the Indian Air Force abroad, handling defence cooperation, military diplomacy and interaction with foreign air forces and industries. Posting to Paris is especially significant due to strong defence ties between India and France. Such roles require diplomatic skill alongside military knowledge, contributing to long-term strategic partnerships.
During his career in the IAF, he held positions of Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects), Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans), Deputy Chief of the Air Staff at Air HQ (VB) and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at South Western Air Command.
These appointments show a balance of operational command and strategic planning. Roles dealing with projects and plans influence future capability building, while command of a major operational command involves direct responsibility for air defence and readiness in sensitive regions. Such experience prepares officers for top leadership roles within the Air Force.
In recognition of his distinguished service, Air Marshal Tiwari was awarded with Param Vishishth Sewa Medal (2025), Ati Vishishth Sewa Medal (2022) and Vayusena Medal (2008). In the year 2025, for distinguished service in operations, he was decorated with the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal.
These awards are among the highest honours given in the Indian armed forces. They recognise exceptional service, leadership and contribution during both peace and operational duties. Receiving multiple high-level decorations reflects a career marked by consistency, dedication and impact. As Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari steps down from active service, he leaves behind a strong legacy of professionalism and commitment to the Indian Air Force and the nation.