Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria (retd.)

Commissioned into the fighter stream in 1980, Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour for his exemplary performance. Throughout his illustrious career, he accumulated over 4,250 flying hours across 26 different aircraft types. Sir has held several key positions, including Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Southern Air Command, and Training Command. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the negotiations for the procurement of Rafale fighter jets for the IAF. He ascended to the position of the 26th Chief of the Air Staff on September 30, 2019, serving until his retirement on September 30, 2021. In March 2024, he transitioned to a political role by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria’s participation in Kalam and Kavach underscores his unwavering commitment to advancing India’s defense capabilities and strategic autonomy.