, retired on 30 April 2025, after completing an illustrious 40-year career in the IAF){kind=link}
MAY 01: Air Marshal SP Dharkar, Vice Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force (IAF), retired on 30 April 2025, after completing an illustrious 40-year career in the IAF. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable journey that began with his commissioning as a Flying Pilot in 1985.
Air Marshal Dharkar was commissioned into the IAF as a fighter pilot on 14 June 1985. Over the years, he accumulated more than 3600 hours of flying experience across various IAF aircraft. His expertise extended beyond flying, as he became a Qualified Flying Instructor, Fighter Strike Leader, and an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner. He has been a key figure in shaping IAF’s operational prowess.
A distinguished alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA), the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), India, and the Army War College, USA, Air Marshal Dharkar held a series of prestigious appointments during his career. His leadership roles included serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief at the Eastern Air Command (EAC) and as the Senior Air Staff Officer at the South Western Air Command. Additionally, he held the post of Air Defence Commander at HQ EAC and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Training) at Air Headquarters. A trailblazer in the Indian defense sector, he was also the first Director General of the Defence Space Agency.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to national defense, Air Marshal Dharkar was honored with several prestigious awards. These include the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2014, the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2023, and the Uttam Yudh Seva Medal in 2025. These accolades reflect the high regard in which he was held within the IAF and the broader defense community.
His retirement signifies the closing of a chapter in the IAF’s history, marked by dedication, excellence, and visionary leadership. Air Marshal SP Dharkar leaves behind a legacy of service and commitment to the defense of India.