Sikhs have made remarkable contributions to the top leadership of the INDIAN AIR FORCE, with four holding the position of Chief of Air Staff.

1. Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh was the first and only officer to achieve the five-star rank, serving as Chief from 1964 to 1969, and playing a pivotal role in the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War.
2. Air Chief Marshal Dilbagh Singh modernized the IAF’s fighter fleet during his tenure from 1981 to 1984.
3. Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, Chief from 2017 to 2019, led the force during the 2019 Balakot airstrike.
4. Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, appointed Vice Chief in 2023, has now joined the ranks of these distinguished leaders. Together, they exemplify the significant role Sikhs have played in shaping the IAF’s legacy. Indian Air Force Indian Air Force (IAF)