Rear Admiral Biplab Hota Assumes Charge as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air)

New Delhi, January 21, 2026 – In a significant appointment, Rear Admiral Biplab Hota has taken over as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air) at the Naval Headquarters, the Indian Navy announced. He assumed charge on January 20, 2026.

A distinguished naval aviator and a qualified Test Pilot, Rear Admiral Hota brings over 32 years of exemplary service to the key role, which oversees the Navy's crucial aviation arm.

A Career Defined by Aviation Excellence:

• Pioneering Fighter Pilot: The Flag Officer is the only naval fighter pilot to be fully operational on all three of India's aircraft carriers – a rare and commendable feat underscoring his expertise.

• Extensive Flying Experience: His logbook includes an impressive 24 different types of aircraft.

• Key Induction Role: He played a pivotal role as part of the team overseeing the induction of the MiG-29K fighter jets into the Indian Navy's fleet.

• Command at Sea and Shore: His command appointments include the ships INS Savitri and INS Teg, the naval air squadron INAS 303, and the premier naval air station INS Hansa in Goa.

• Staff Expertise: Prior to his flag rank, he served as Commodore (Air and Training) at Headquarters, Western Naval Command (Mumbai) and Commodore (Air Traffic Control and Training) at Naval Headquarters.

Recent Promotions and Awards:

• Promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral on July 1, 2024, he was subsequently appointed as the Chief of Staff at Headquarters, Andaman and Nicobar Command in Port Blair.

• For his distinguished service, Rear Admiral Hota is a recipient of the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM).

Rear Admiral Hota succeeds Rear Admiral [Predecessor's Name*] in the post. His vast operational and staff experience in naval aviation is expected to be pivotal in steering the Indian Navy's air capabilities and modernization projects, including the integration of new aircraft and the operational readiness of the carrier-borne fleet.