Ranks of Indian air force
The rank structure of Indian Air Force is based on that of the Royal Air Force. It is the third wing of the defense forces of India after the Indian Army and the Indian Navy. The highest rank attainable in the IAF is Marshal of the Indian Air Force, conferred by the President of India after exceptional service during wartime. Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh is the only officer to have achieved this rank. The Chief of the Air Staff (India), also known as the Air Force Chief is the head of the Indian Air Force Headquarters, and the chief of staff of the Indian Air Force. The present Chief of the Air Staff is Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari PVSM AVSM VM ADC.
Officer ranks
In descending order | General/Flag officers: |
1 Marshal of the Indian Air Force | |
2. Air Chief Marshal | |
3. Air Marshal | |
4. Air Vice Marshal | |
5. Air Commodore | |
Field/ Senior Officers | |
6. Group Captain | |
7. Wing Commander | |
8. Squadron Leader | |
Junior Officers | |
9. Flight Lieutenant | |
10. Flying Officer | |
11. Flight Cadet |
Junior commissioned officer and non-commissioned ranks
The officers in this category are selected through the Central Airmen Selection Board.
1.Master Warrant Officer | |
2. Warrant Officer | |
3. Junior Warrant Officer | |
4. Sergeant | |
5. Corporal | |
6. Leading aircraftman | |
7. Air Craftsman | No Insignia |