Bengaluru: In a ceremonial event marked by precision and pride, Air Commodore Kaustubh Apte, VSM, assumed command of the 26 Equipment Depot, Indian Air Force (IAF), Bengaluru, on Monday. The event featured an impressive ceremonial parade by the depot personnel, symbolizing the seamless transition of leadership from Air Commodore Manoj Kumar to Air Commodore Apte.
A Distinguished Career
Commissioned into the Logistics branch of the IAF on 19 December 1992, Air Commodore Kaustubh Apte has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. A scholar and a strategist, he holds multiple advanced qualifications, including a postgraduate degree in physics, an MPhil in political science, and an executive MBA from IIT Madras. His academic repertoire further includes a professional diploma in public procurement, a postgraduate diploma in material management, and an executive diploma in project management.
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An alumnus of the prestigious National Defence College, New Delhi; College of Air Warfare, Secunderabad; and Air Force Administrative College, Coimbatore, Air Commodore Apte has built a reputation as an expert in provisioning, procurement, and supply chain management.
Leadership and Contributions
Prior to this appointment, Air Commodore Apte served as Air Commodore Procurement at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhavan), New Delhi, where he played a pivotal role in streamlining procurement operations. He is also credited as the founder director of the Central Provisioning Directorate at Air Headquarters, an initiative aimed at enhancing efficiency in logistics and provisioning processes across the IAF.
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Recognition of Excellence
In 2010, Air Commodore Apte was awarded the prestigious Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) by the President of India, in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to duty.
Looking Ahead
As the new Air Officer Commanding of the 26 Equipment Depot, Bengaluru, Air Commodore Apte is poised to bring his vast expertise and strategic vision to further enhance the depot’s operational capabilities. Known for its critical role in the logistics and supply chain framework of the IAF, the depot will benefit from his leadership and commitment to excellence.
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The ceremony not only marked the change of command but also underscored the continued commitment of the Indian Air Force to operational readiness and professional excellence. With Air Commodore Apte at the helm, the 26 Equipment Depot is set to scale new heights in service to the nation.
