Mumbai
Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra took over as Commander of the Western Air Command of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This is an important post, which ensures the security of India’s western borders.
Took advanced training from Bangalore, America and UK
Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra was commissioned as a fighter pilot in December 1986. He has gained more than 3,000 hours of flying experience. A graduate of the Pune-based National Defense Academy, Air Marshal Mishra has received advanced training from the Air Force Test Pilot School, Bengaluru, the Air Command and Staff College, USA, and the Royal College of Defense Studies, United Kingdom.
Air Marshal Mishra replaces Air Marshal Pankaj Mohan Sinha, who retires on 31 December 2024.
Played many important roles in Indian Air Force
Air Marshal Mishra is a fighter combat leader and experimental test pilot. He has played many important roles in the Indian Air Force. These include responsibilities ranging from the commanding officer of a fighter squadron to the chief test pilot of the Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment (ASTE). He commanded two forward Air Force bases and has held important positions such as Director of Operational Planning and Evaluation, Principal Director (ASR), and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Projects) at Air Headquarters.
Apart from this, he has also been the Commandant of ASTE and Deputy Chief of Integrated Defense Staff (Doctrine, Organization, and Training). Prior to this assignment, Air Marshal Mishra was serving as the Deputy Chief of Integrated Defense Staff (Operations).
What is the role of Western Air Command?
The Western Air Command is the most strategically important formation of the Indian Air Force, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the nation’s western borders and providing operational support during conflict.
