Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor SYSM PVSM AVSM VM assumed charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) of the Indian Air Force on 1 January 2026, succeeding Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, who superannuated after four decades of distinguished service.
An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Air Marshal Kapoor was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Flying Branch in December 1986. A highly experienced fighter pilot, Qualified Flying Instructor, and Fighter Combat Leader, he has flown all variants of the MiG-21 and MiG-29 aircraft and has logged over 3,400 flying hours on combat and trainer aircraft.
With more than 39 years of illustrious service, he has held a wide range of command, operational, instructional, and staff appointments. His key roles include Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron, Station Commander of a major flying base, Air Officer Commanding of a premier air base, Chief Instructor (Flying) at the Air Force Academy, and Directing Staff at the Defence Services Staff College. He also played a crucial role in the induction and operationalisation of the PC-7 Mk II trainer aircraft.
Air Marshal Kapoor has served as Defence Attaché to Pakistan and held senior strategic positions at Air Headquarters. Prior to his present appointment, he was the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Training Command and South Western Air Command. In recognition of his exceptional service, he has been awarded multiple gallantry and distinguished service medals, including Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal.
