Shillong, Oct 4 (ANI): Air Marshal LK Malhotra took over as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO), at the Eastern Air Command Headquarters here on Sunday.

Air Marshal Malhotra is a recipient of Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for his exemplary leadership, dedication and distinguished service to the IAF.

Commissioned in fighter stream in 1973 Air Marshal Malhotra has nearly 4000 hours flying experience on a variety of fighter aircrafts.

Air Marshal Malhotra is a graduate of the National Defence Academy, a qualified flying instructor, an Instrument Rating Instructor and Examiner, a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College and has undergone the Higher Command Course at College of Combat, Mhow.

He has held several important field and staff appointments, which include Commanding Officer of a Fighter Squadron, Chief Operations Officer of a Fighter Base, Directing Staff of College of Air Warfare, Command of a Tactical Unit in Eastern Air Command, and important staff appointments in the Department of Personnel (Officers) at Air Headquarters.

He has commanded the premier Air Force Fighter Station, Ambala, and has held the coveted appointment of Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Personnel Officers). He has also been appointed as the Commodore Commandant of the 14 Squadron, which is also known as The Bulls.

Prior to assuming the present appointment, Air Marshal Malhotra served as Senior Officer in charge Administration. (ANI)