Air Commodore Rohit Kapil: Key Leader in India's Successful Missile Interception during Operation Sindoor

Air Commodore Rohit Kapil serves as a distinguished figure in the Indian Air Force (IAF), exemplifying commitment and bravery that are emblematic of India's defense aviation forces. Since his commissioning as a fighter pilot in 1998, Kapil has advanced through the ranks, earning recognition for his remarkable career, which includes over 3,500 hours of flight time, leadership of frontline squadrons, and significant roles in critical operations.
His recent accolade, the Yudh Seva Medal (2025), acknowledges his vital contributions to national security, specifically his leadership during Operation Sindoor. This operation witnessed India's successful interception and neutralization of a Pakistani ballistic missile targeting Delhi. Currently, as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of 45 Wing at Sirsa, Kapil continues to motivate future officers through his steadfast dedication to excellence.
Air Commodore Kapil was inducted into the Flying Branch on June 20, 1998. He has accumulated over 3,500 flying hours on various aircraft, notably the Su-30MKI multirole fighter. His qualifications as a Category ‘A’ Flying Instructor and his training at the Advance Command and Staff Course in the UK underline his strategic and operational expertise.
Throughout his career, he has commanded frontline Su-30MKI squadrons, revitalized underperforming units, and represented the IAF in numerous international exercises, enhancing India's aerial capabilities and international partnerships.
In 2025, during a period of heightened tensions, Pakistan launched a Fateh-class ballistic missile aimed at the Indian capital. Under Kapil’s leadership, the IAF deployed the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile system from the Sirsa Air Base.
The system successfully intercepted and destroyed the missile over Haryana airspace, preventing a disastrous strike on Delhi. This operation not only underscored India's advancing air defense capabilities but also highlighted Kapil’s composed leadership in crisis situations.
For his role in planning and executing this mission, Kapil was awarded the Yudh Seva Medal, one of India’s distinguished honors for gallantry in conflict scenarios.
Among his military accolades, the Yudh Seva Medal (2025) recognizes his decisive leadership in Operation Sindoor, where his strategic decisions and tactical acumen led to the successful interception of a Pakistani missile threat.
In 2018, Kapil received the Vayu Sena Medal for his outstanding dedication to duty during peacetime, particularly for operationalizing a squadron, maintaining high aircraft serviceability, and ensuring the IAF’s combat readiness.
As the AOC of 45 Wing at Sirsa, a crucial forward base near India's western border, Kapil oversees frontline squadrons, guarantees high operational preparedness, and coordinates with air defense systems. His leadership ensures that the IAF is poised to respond effectively to threats.
The career of Air Commodore Rohit Kapil is marked by discipline, foresight, and bravery. From instructing young fighter pilots to leading one of India's most strategically significant air bases, his journey embodies the IAF’s motto of “Touch the Sky with Glory.”
His decisive actions during Operation Sindoor safeguarded millions and reinforced India's stature as a nation capable of defending against advanced missile threats. For aspiring officers and young aviators, his career serves as a testament to the impact of professionalism, rigorous training, and courage in ensuring national security.
Achievement | Details |
---|---|
Commissioning | June 20, 1998, Fighter Pilot (161st Course) |
Flying Experience | Over 3,500 hours on Su-30MKI and other fighters |
Professional Qualification | Category ‘A’ Flying Instructor, Advance Command and Staff Course (UK) |
Commands Held | Su-30MKI Squadron; Air Officer Commanding 45 Wing, Sirsa |
Major Awards | Yudh Seva Medal (2025), Vayu Sena Medal (2018) |
Operational Highlight | Intercepted Pakistani Fateh-class missile in Operation Sindoor |
International Roles | Led Singapore training exercises; represented India at Japan’s Hyakuri Air Base |
1 comment
Sirsa IAF station done excellent under command of AOC Air Cmde Rohit kapil VSM, YSM along with CO of MRSAM of Barak-8 unit must given credit under whom direct operational Command Pak missile Fatah has been deployed which was launched towards country’s Capital Delhi as S-400 unit CO awarded with Veer chakra. Overall Command credit goes to top commander of base under whose motivation and guidance Pakistanis missiles destroyed successfully. My Special Thanks to whole Sirsa air force station personnel whose collective efforts put India under high class air defense operations given shock jerks to whole world specially Pakistan, China and USA.
Jai Hind ki Sena includes Army, Navy and Air force