Rajnath Singh bids farewell to Air Chief Marshal AP Singh ahead of October 31 retirement

New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has bidden farewell to outgoing Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh on October 26, ahead of his retirement on October 31, recognising his 42 years of service to the nation.

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During the meeting, Singh commended the outgoing Air Chief’s distinguished service, leadership and contribution to strengthening the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities. He also acknowledged AP Singh’s key role in the successful execution of Operation Sindoor and extended his best wishes for his future endeavours.

AP Singh’s retirement bought his more than four-decade-long military career to a close. His final flying sortie took place on October 20 aboard an HJT-16 Kiran Mk-1 trainer aircraft, alongside his first flying instructor, Wing Commander V.S. Kochar (retd), marking a symbolic return to the beginnings of his flying journey.

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On October 31, the outgoing Air Chief is scheduled to lay a wreath at the National War Memorial before inspecting a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Air Force Station, New Delhi, ahead of his superannuation. The ceremony marked the formal conclusion of his tenure as the IAF’s 28th Chief of the Air Staff.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, currently serving as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, is set to take over as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff from the afternoon of October 31. The leadership transition came as the IAF continues to focus on operational readiness, modernisation and strengthening its capabilities.

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