National Desk, 30th October: Air Marshal (Retired) PK Barbora PVSM VM ADC, the former Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force, has passed away. He was born on December 10, 1950, in Shillong, and his distinguished career in the Indian Air Force spanned several decades.
Commissioned as a Fighter Pilot on June 13, 1970, Air Marshal Barbora was a highly experienced aviator with over 3500 flight hours to his credit. He notably participated in the 1971 war. His impressive qualifications included being a qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader. He served at the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment, a premier flying institution of the IAF. Additionally, he contributed to the Directorate of Air Staff Inspection (DASI) at Air Headquarters and completed his higher command course at the College of Combat, Mhow.
Air Marshal Barbora played a pivotal role as a member of the IAF team that introduced the first Jaguar Squadron and the IAF’s inaugural Air Combat Simulator in Asia. Throughout his career, he held various operational roles, including commanding a MiG-21 squadron, serving as the Chief Operations Officer of a fighter airbase, and leading as the Air Officer Commanding of a premier fighter airbase under Eastern Air Command.
His extensive service also encompassed diplomatic roles as the Air Attaché at the Embassy of India, Moscow, and positions related to integrated defense planning and force structure. Notably, he was the first individual from the North East region to attain such a prestigious high-ranking position in the Armed Forces.
Air Marshal Barbora’s notable recognitions included the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and Vayu Sena Medal (VM). He was also one of the Honorary Aides-de-Camp (ADC) to the President of India, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the country.
Air Marshal (Retd.) PK Barbora leaves a lasting legacy in the Indian Air Force, and his contributions will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
Read More: External Affairs Minister Jaishankar Assures Support for Indian Nationals Facing Death Penalties in Qatar