Meet the Only 5-Star Officer in Indian Air Force: Marshal Arjan Singh

The life and achievements of Marshal Arjan Singh are a beacon of courage, dedication, and leadership in Indian military history. As the first and only five-star officer of the Indian Air Force, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of Indians and Air Warriors.

September 17, 2024
6:26 am

Arjan Singh was born on 15 April 1919 in Faisalabad, Punjab, then British India. He is one of the iconic figures of Indian military history and has served the country from World War II to his tenure as the commander-in-chief during the 1965 Indo-Pak war and further through diplomacy. This article is on the life, career, and legacy of Marshal Arjan Singh, a man whose name is synonymous with courage, dedication, and military excellence.

Early Life and Education

Major Arjan Singh was born into a proud military tradition, as this was his fourth generation to serve in the armed forces. His education at Montgomery now Sahiwal, Pakistan) and then going to the RAF College Cranwell prepared him well for his distinguished military career.

Military Career and World War II

Singh was commissioned in December 1939 as a Pilot Officer, flying Westland Wapiti biplanes with the No. 1 Squadron. He commanded the No. 1 Squadron during the Arakan Campaign during World War II. In 1944, he was awarded Distinguished Flying Cross for displaying astounding bravery.

Career, after Independence

On 15 August 1947, when India celebrated independence, Singh led the first fly-past of the Royal Indian Air Force over the Red Fort. His career continued soaring, and in 1964, he became the youngest and only officer to be promoted to the rank of Marshal of the Indian Air Force. For his leadership during the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Singh was awarded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan.
After retiring from the Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh served as India’s Ambassador to Switzerland and High Commissioner to Kenya. In 2002, he became the first and only officer in the Indian Air Force to achieve the five-star rank of Marshal of the Indian Air Force.

Personal Life and Legacy

Arjan Singh was a very family-oriented man. He married Teji Singh. In the latter half of his life, Singh remained an active worker for veteran welfare. His death in 2017 at 98 years of age left his legacy behind, with events such as the ‘Marshal Arjan Singh Memorial All India Hockey Tournament’ held every year in his name.

Awards and Decorations

Arjan Singh has been awarded numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Padma Vibhushan and the Distinguished Flying Cross. His leadership, service, and patriotism have always inspired future generations of Indians and Air Warriors.