Shillong, Jan 1 (IANS) Air Marshal S.B. Deo Thursday took over as the chief of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command, which is responsible for the northeast region.
Deo, a fighter combat leader and a qualified flying instructor, took over from Air Marshal R.K. Jolly, who retired from service Wednesday.
Assuming command, he was presented a ceremonial guard of honour at the command hedquarters here.
Inducted as a fighter pilot in 1979, Deo has held various important staff and field appointments during his distinguished service career spanning over 35 years, said IAF spokesman Group Captain Amit Mahajan.
Prior to taking over the Eastern Air Command, Deo was director general (operations) at the Indian Air Force headquarters in New Delhi.