Air Commodore B S Vijay Rao Takes Command at Palam Base Repair Depot
Air Commodore B S Vijay Rao, VSM, took over as the Air Officer Commanding at the Base Repair Depot (BRD) in Palam, New Delhi, on March 1, 2026. This appointment signifies a pivotal change in leadership at one of the leading maintenance and overhaul centers of the Indian Air Force.
With a commissioning date of November 27, 1995, into the Aeronautical Engineering (Electronics) Branch, Air Commodore Vijay Rao brings over three decades of accomplished service. As an Electrical Engineer holding an Executive MBA, he is also an alumnus of the National Defence College and the Army War College, indicating a robust foundation in both technical and strategic areas.
Throughout his career, he has held numerous significant positions in field operations, staff roles, and project management. His notable roles include serving as the Chief Engineering Officer at a prominent base, along with key responsibilities at Air Headquarters across Operations, Maintenance, and Plans branches. In these capacities, he has played a vital role in modernizing, acquiring, and sustaining programs for the Indian Air Force.
Additionally, Air Commodore Rao has represented the Indian Air Force in international professional assignments. He has been instrumental in major upgrade initiatives and technology transfer programs with global aerospace entities, thereby bolstering indigenous capabilities and technical expertise.
In honor of his exceptional service, he has been awarded the Presidential Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM). As he assumes the role of Air Officer Commanding at BRD Palam, his leadership is anticipated to further the depot's contributions towards maintaining operational readiness and fostering technological advancement within the Indian Air Force.
