Air Chief Marshal Norman Anil Kumar Browne on Sunday became the country's 23rd Chief of the Air Staff. He took over from Air Chief Marshal Pradeep Vasant Naik, who doffed his cap after 42 years of illustrious service.
Taking charge at Vayu Bhawan, Air Headquarters, Air Chief Marshal Browne noted that the Indian Air Force was on the verge of transforming itself into a “potent strategic force” and unveiled his “People First Mission Always” vision for the force.
With the IAF inducting state-of-the art equipment as it moves ahead on the path of modernisation, both the equipment and systems would “lead to a major upgrade of our combat potential.”
Aware of the challenges that accompanied modernisation programmes, in his message to the IAF, he said its personnel must receive the highest attention and be reminded that everyone, irrespective of the rank and position, must endeavour to empower those working below them so that they acquired operating skills through dedicated training and mentoring.
“While change is the hallmark of growth and progress, the biggest challenge facing us in the coming years is to manage this fast paced change effectively, without compromising on high operational standards. Operating across a broad spectrum of equipment vintage, would test our innovativeness and capabilities. The nation has reposed a high degree of trust and confidence in our capabilities. It is indeed an onerous asking, and I am confident that as capable men and women, we will work shoulder to shoulder in discharging our responsibilities befittingly,'' he said.
A fighter pilot with 3,100 flying hours, Allahabad-born Air Chief Marshal Browne (59), joined the IAF in 1972. He has flown Hunters, all variants of MiG-21s, Jaguars and SU-30s, an aircraft his son Omar is trained to fly.
He has held various operational and staff appointments. During a two-year stint as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, he was responsible for the IAF's major modernisation programmes and later became Chief of the Western Air Command. In January this year, he took over as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff.
Air Chief Marshal Browne is decorated with Param Vishist Seva Medal, Ati Vishist Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal and is appointed as one of the Honorary Aides De Camp to the President of India.
Married to Kiran, his family includes daughter Alisha, who works for a multinational company.
