At the start of the day, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial and paid tribute to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
Following this, he was accorded a formal ‘Guard of Honour’ at the Air Force Station parade ground. Shortly thereafter, he handed over charge to Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, who assumed the position of the new ‘Chief of the Air Staff’ on Saturday.
As an accomplished fighter pilot and experimental test pilot, Air Chief Marshal Singh made significant contributions toward strengthening the Indian Air Force’s operational capabilities, combat readiness, and modernization.
According to a statement from the Indian Air Force, his tenure placed a special emphasis on operational preparedness and decisive leadership. Notably, during ‘Operation Sindoor,’ the Air Force demonstrated exceptional combat capabilities, precise operational efficiency, and a high state of readiness. The Indian Air Force highlighted his close rapport with all personnel across the organization. He consistently emphasized a professional attitude, accountability, the capacity to take initiative, and a sense of pride in service.
His interactions with air warriors, young officers, airmen, and cadets demonstrate his focus on preparing future leadership and strengthening the human resource capabilities of the Air Force.
During his tenure, Air Chief Marshal Singh prioritized technical modernization, indigenization, innovation, and the integration of new technologies, with the goal of building an Air Force prepared for the future.
The Indian Air Force acknowledged his contribution toward strengthening its resolve to remain a capable, reliable, and combat-ready force. The Air Force also extended its best wishes to him and his wife, Sarita Singh, for their future endeavors.
Earlier, President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also conveyed their best wishes to the outgoing Air Force Chief. They commended his distinguished service, exemplary leadership, and his contributions to the Indian Air Force and the nation. The Defence Minister specifically highlighted his role in the successful execution of ‘Operation Sindoor’.
