New Delhi:  Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi has been appointed as the next Chief of the Naval Staff, effective April 30, 2024.

 This announcement comes as Admiral R Hari Kumar, the current Chief of the Naval Staff, prepares to retire from service on the same date.

Vice Admiral Tripathi, born on May 15, 1964, brings with him nearly 39 years of distinguished service within the Indian Navy. Commissioned into the Executive Branch in 1985, he specializes in Communication and Electronic Warfare.

His extensive experience includes commanding Indian Naval Ships Vinash, Kirch, and Trishul, along with holding various crucial operational and staff roles.

Prior to his current appointment as Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Tripathi served as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command.

Throughout his career, he has held key positions such as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet, Director of Naval Operations, and Principal Director of Naval Plans.

His leadership extends to Rear Admiral and Vice Admiral ranks, where he served as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy and Plans), Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, and Director General of Naval Operations, among others.

An alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa, and the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Vice Admiral Tripathi has completed courses at prestigious institutions including the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington and the Naval Command College at the United States Naval Staff.