The Government has appointed Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan as the new Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS). He will succeed Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, who is set to retire on 31 May 2026.
Vice Admiral Swaminathan is currently serving as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command and is a specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare. Commissioned into the Indian Navy on 1 July 1987, he is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and several prestigious defence institutions in India, the UK, and the USA.
During his distinguished naval career, he commanded several major warships, including INS Vikramaditya, INS Mysore, and INS Kulish. He has also held important positions such as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Chief of Personnel, and Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet.
A recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan is known for his contributions to naval operations, training, and maritime security.
