Air Marshal TM Asthana has been appointed
as first Commander-in-Chief of Strategic Forces Command (SFC)
with effect form 12 Jan 03.
Air Marshal Asthana was commissioned in the year 1963 as fighter
pilot. He has over 3000 hours of flying to his credit on fixed
wing fighter aircraft. He has also flown rotary wing aircraft.
He has commanded a fighter squadron in the east and two premier
airbases in the Western sector. He has been a Directing Staff
at the prestigious Tactics and Combat Development Establishment
and Director of Air Staff Inspection.
Air Marshal Asthana was holding the appointment of AOC-in-C, Southern
Air Command prior to his present appointment. Other prestigious
appointments held by him includes Deputy Chief of Air Staff, Assistant
Chief of Air Staff (Operations), Assistant Chief of Air Staff
(Personnel Officers) and the Senior Air Staff Officer of an Operational
Command.
The Air Marshal is an alumnus of the Royal College of Defence
Studies, UK and has been awarded Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati
Vishisht Seva Medal and Vayu Sena Medal for his outstanding services.
