Air Marshal PP Rajkumar, PVSM, AVSM, ex AOC-in-C, CAC, C-in-C, ANC, Comdt NDC, DC&CI NDA

Air Mshl. Packiam Paul Rajkumar was commissioned in the IAF on 21 Jun 69. An A-2 Qualified Instructor (QFI), graduate of National Defence College and the Defence Services Staff College, he has commanded an operational helicopter unit, which actively participated in Op Pawan in Sri Lanka. He has also been at the helm of the Helicopter Training School, a premium training institution of the Indian Air Force and successfully commanded an Air Force Station. He has also served eminently as Air Force Examiner in the AEB during 1985-88. He has over 6500 accident free flying hours to his credit.

The officer took charge as the Director of Operations (Transport and Helicopters) on 24 Dec 01, at the peak of the Air Force activation. This called for intense personal involvement and meticulous planning to ensure that the IAF firepower was positioned on the western border well within the stipulated time. He has been able to successfully achieve this enormous task in a smooth and efficient manner. The officer ensured continued serviceability and high availability of the helicopter fleet which is the lifeline for sustenance of troops in the forward areas, especially high altitudes.

It is to the credit of the air officer that during this period of enhanced activity, equal attention was paid to the revision and standardization of various orders, instructions and operating procedures pertaining to transport and helicopter operations. The cases for replenishment of spares and equipment for the fleet are also being expeditiously progressed by the officer with acumen and vision.