Air Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik has been appointed the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) designate.

Air Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik has been appointed the next Chief of Air Staff (CAS). He takes office on May 31, with the retirement of incumbent chief Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major. Born on 22 Jul 1949, Air Marshal Naik was commissioned into the Air Force on 21 Jun 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 hrs of flying to his credit. The Air Marshal also took part in 1971 war. Before taking over as VCAS, he was Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the 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 & 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.