Air Marshal Hardeep Bains Assumes Role as Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at IAF Headquarters
Today, Air Marshal Hardeep Bains officially took over as the Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel (AOP) at the Air Headquarters, marking a pivotal change in the leadership of the Indian Air Force (IAF). He replaces Air Marshal S.K. Vidhate, who retired on 30 September 2025 after an esteemed 38-year career dedicated to national service.
Air Marshal Bains, commissioned into the fighter stream of the Flying Branch on 19 December 1987, is a seasoned aviator and a Category ‘A’ qualified flying instructor. He has achieved over 5,000 hours of safe flying, reflecting his expertise and commitment. His nearly four-decade-long career includes numerous significant field and staff roles that have bolstered both the operational and personnel strengths of the IAF.
He is a graduate of the National War College in South Africa and the National Defence College in Israel, bringing extensive strategic and operational knowledge to his new role. Before this appointment, he was the Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC) in New Delhi, where he was instrumental in developing future military leaders and enhancing strategic defense education.
In recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, Air Marshal Bains received the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) in 2012 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2015 from the President of India. His new position as AOP highlights the IAF's ongoing dedication to personnel welfare, operational readiness, and leadership development as it advances towards becoming a future-ready aerospace force.
