Rear Admiral Biplab Hota Appointed as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Air Operations
Rear Admiral Biplab Hota took over the role of Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air) at Naval Headquarters on January 20, 2026.
With a career that spans over three decades, Rear Admiral Hota, an accomplished Test Pilot, has gained significant operational, command, and staff experience both in India and internationally. His aviation expertise is highlighted by his experience flying 24 different types of aircraft and his involvement in the induction of the MiG-29K fighter aircraft into the Indian Navy.
Remarkably, he holds the unique achievement of being the only naval fighter pilot fully operational on three aircraft carriers, underscoring his profound knowledge of carrier-borne aviation. His naval service is marked by various assignments on Indian Naval Ships, and he has commanded key platforms and aviation units, including INS Savitri, INS Teg, INAS 303, and Naval Air Station Hansa.
Besides his commendable command roles, Rear Admiral Hota has also held significant staff positions such as Commodore (Air Traffic Control) at the Headquarters Naval Aviation and Commodore (Aviation) at the Western Naval Command Headquarters.
After being elevated to Flag Rank on July 1, 2024, he served as Chief of Staff at the Headquarters Andaman and Nicobar Command (HQ ANC) before assuming his current post.
Rear Admiral Biplab Hota has been honored with the Vishisht Seva Medal for his exceptional service to the country. His new position as ACNS (Air) is anticipated to bolster the Indian Navy's aviation capabilities in light of the evolving maritime and aerospace environments.
