The government has named Vice-Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi as the next Chief of the Naval Staff. On April 30, he will assume command following the superannuation of the incumbent chief, Admiral R. Hari Kumar.
Vice-Admiral Tripathi, who was born on May 15, 1964, was commissioned into the Indian Navy’s Executive Branch on July 1, 1985. At present, he holds the position of Vice Chief of the Indian Navy (VCNS).
Vice-Admiral Tripathi is a specialist in Electronic Warfare and Communication with nearly 39 years of distinguished service under his belt. He had been the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Naval Command before assuming the role of VCNS.
Vice-Admiral Tripathi has held a number of positions in staff, instruction, and command. He has given the orders for INS “Vinash,” “Kirch,” and “Trishul.”
Additionally, he has held a number of significant staff and operational positions, including Principal Director Naval Plans at New Delhi, Director of Naval Operations, Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet, and Principal Director Network Centric Operations.
He commanded the Eastern Fleet as Flag Officer in his capacity as Rear Admiral. In addition, he held the positions of Chief of Personnel in NHQs and Commandant of the esteemed Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala.
Vice-Admiral Tripathi is a graduate of the Sainik School Rewa, the NDA Khadakwasla, and the DSSC Wellington. He has also attended the Naval War College, Goa, and the Naval War College USA.
The Ati Vishist Seva Medal (AVSM) and the Nau Sena Medal (NM) have been bestowed upon him.