Overview
Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command on 1 June 2026. He succeeded Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan, who retired after 40 years of service. The Central Air Command is headquartered at Prayagraj and is a key operational command of the Indian Air Force.
A New Leader Takes Over
On 1 June 2026, the Indian Air Force got a new commander for one of its most important operational commands. Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry assumed charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command (CAC) . The headquarters of this command is located in Prayagraj , Uttar Pradesh. He took over from Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan. Air Marshal Manikantan superannuated (retired) on 31 May 2026 after completing 40 years of dedicated service in the Indian Air Force.
What is Central Air Command?
The Central Air Command is one of the seven commands of the Indian Air Force. Among these, five are operational commands and two are functional commands. The Central Air Command covers a large part of central India. Its main role is to provide operational depth for the western and northern sectors. This means that if there is a conflict on India’s borders with Pakistan or China, the Central Air Command can send its aircraft and support units to help the front-line commands. It is a very strategic command.
The headquarters of Central Air Command is at Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad). The command has air bases in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and other parts of central India. It is responsible for air defence, strike operations, logistics, and training within its geographical area.
Who is Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry?
Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry is a highly experienced fighter pilot. He was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force in December 1989 . That means he has been serving the nation for more than 36 years. Over his long career, he has held many important positions. Before taking over the Central Air Command, he served as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Headquarters Southern Air Command . As SASO, he was the second-in-command of that command and was responsible for all operational and administrative matters.
Air Marshal Chaudhry has also served in diplomatic assignments . He was the Defence Attaché at the Embassy of India in Sweden . He also had concurrent accreditation (covering multiple countries) to Norway, Finland, and Denmark . This means he represented India’s defence interests in four Nordic countries. Such assignments give officers valuable experience in international relations and defence diplomacy.
Education and Training
Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry is a well-educated officer. He is an alumnus of some of India’s most prestigious defence institutions:
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National Defence Academy (NDA) – where future officers of the Army, Navy, and Air Force are trained together.
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Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) – a premier training institution for mid-career officers.
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College of Air Warfare – a specialised college for air force officers.
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National Defence College (NDC) – the highest-level defence training institution in India.
These qualifications have prepared him well for the challenges of leading a major operational command.
The Handover Ceremony
The change of command took place at the Central Air Command headquarters in Prayagraj. Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry was welcomed by the officers and personnel of the command. He took over the charge in a simple but dignified ceremony. Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan, the outgoing commander, was given a warm farewell. He retired after four decades of service. His long career included many operational and staff appointments. The entire command thanked him for his contributions.
What Does the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Do?
The Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) is the senior-most officer of an operational command. He is responsible for all activities within his command. This includes:
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Operational readiness – ensuring that all air bases, aircraft, and personnel are ready for any mission.
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Training – preparing pilots, technicians, and ground staff for their roles.
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Logistics – managing supplies, fuel, weapons, and spare parts.
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Administration – looking after the welfare of personnel and their families.
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Coordination – working with other commands and the Army, Navy, and civil authorities.
The AOC-in-C reports to the Chief of the Air Staff (the head of the Indian Air Force). His decisions directly affect the security of a large part of India.
Importance of Central Air Command
Central Air Command is sometimes called the “second line of defence”. The first line of defence is the Western Air Command (facing Pakistan) and the Eastern Air Command (facing China). If those front-line commands need help, the Central Air Command sends reinforcements. It also has its own strike capabilities. The command’s air bases are located deep inside Indian territory, so they are safer from enemy attacks. This allows them to launch long-range missions without being easily targeted.
In recent years, the Central Air Command has also played a role in disaster relief. It has transported food, medicine, and rescue teams during floods and earthquakes. It has also helped evacuate Indian citizens from conflict zones abroad.
A Message from the New Commander
After taking charge, Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry addressed the personnel. He praised the outgoing commander for his exceptional service. He also said that he would continue to focus on operational excellence and the welfare of air warriors. He urged everyone to maintain high standards of discipline and professionalism. He also emphasised the importance of staying ready at all times, because “peace is maintained only when we are strong.”
Legacy of Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan
Air Marshal Manikantan retired after 40 years of service. He had served in various fighter squadrons and staff appointments. He was known for his calm leadership and technical knowledge. Under his command, the Central Air Command conducted several major exercises and strengthened its infrastructure. His retirement is a loss, but the command is in good hands with Air Marshal Chaudhry.
Conclusion
The appointment of Air Marshal Tarun Chaudhry as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command marks the beginning of a new chapter. With his rich experience in fighter operations, staff roles, and diplomatic assignments, he is well-suited to lead this vital command. The Central Air Command will continue to guard the skies over central India and provide strength to the nation’s defence. As India faces evolving security challenges, having a capable and dedicated leader like Air Marshal Chaudhry is a great asset.