Air Marshal Pradeep Padmakar Bapat took over as Air Officer-in Charge Administration (AOA) of Indian Air Force on 01 Nov 18. He succeeds Air Marshal HN Bhagwat who retired on 31 Oct 18.

Air Marshal Bapat was commissioned in the Indian Air Force in the Administrative Branch on 28 May 1983. He was a member of IAF team which participated in a joint exercise with South African Air Force named Golden Eagle at Hoedspruit in South Africa. Prior to assuming the duties of AOA, he discharged the responsibilities of Director General (Works & Ceremonials).

In recognition of his meritorious service and exceptional professionalism, he was awarded "Param Vishisht Seva Medal" & 'Vishisht Seva Medal' by President of India.