Ranks in Indian Air Force

This article outlines the rank structure of the Indian Air Force, detailing the various officer and non-officer ranks. It also includes information on the insignia for each rank, providing a comprehensive understanding of the hierarchy within the IAF and the distinctions associated with each rank.

Table of Contents

The Indian Air Force (IAF) follows a rank structure similar to that of the Royal Air Force (UK), with a well-defined hierarchy that includes officer, junior commissioned, and non-commissioned ranks. The highest rank in the IAF is the prestigious Marshal of the Indian Air Force, conferred for exceptional service. Below this, ranks such as Air Chief Marshal, Air Marshal, and Air Vice Marshal are prominent in the officer category. Additionally, junior commissioned officers and non-commissioned ranks play a critical role in supporting operational duties and tasks.

Ranks of Indian Air Force

The rank structure of Indian Air Force is based on that of the Royal Air Force (UK). 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.
In January 2002, the Government of India honored Arjan Singh with the rank of Marshal of the Air Force, making him the first and only ‘Five-Star’ rank officer in the history of the Indian Air Force. 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 Amar Preet Singh (28th).

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.

Junior commissioned officer and non-commissioned ranks
1.Master Warrant Officer
2. Warrant Officer
3. Junior Warrant Officer
4. Sergeant
5. Corporal
6. Leading aircraftman
7. Air Craftsman	No Insignia

FAQs

What is the full form of IAF?

The full form of IAF is Indian Air Force.

Which rank is high in Air Force?

Marshal of the Indian Air Force is the highest rank in the IAF and holds a five-star status, making it the most prestigious and unattainable position in the service.

What is the lowest rank in IAF?

In the Indian Air Force (IAF), Aircraftsman is the entry-level rank, typically held during training. The next rank above Aircraftsman is Leading Aircraftsman.