Air Marshal P V Naik to be next Air Force chief

New Delhi, Mar 20 (ANI): Air Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik presently the Vice Chief of Air Staff has been appointed as the chief of the Indian Air Force with effect from the afternoon of May 31, 2009.

The present IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major retires from service on May 31, 2009.

Born on 22 Jul 1949, Air Marshal Naik was commissioned into the Air Force on June 21, 1969 as a fighter pilot.

During his long distinguished service spanning nearly 40 years he has served in a variety of command staff and instructional appointments.

He has the distinction of 3085 hours of flying to his credit. The Air Officer also took part in 1971 war.

Before taking over as VCAS, he was Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Allahabad based Central Air Command.

Besides being a fellow of the National Defence College, New Delhi, College of Defence Management, Secundrabad and Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, he has attended a variety of courses like flying instructor Course, Jungle and Snow Survival, Junior Commanders Course.

Air Marshal Naik was decorated with Param Vishist Seva Medal (PVSM) and Vishist Seva Medal (VSM). He is one of the Honorary ADCs of the Supreme Commander. (ANI)