10 Facts About Balakrishnan Manikantan

Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan, PVSM, AVSM, VM is an officer of the Indian Air Force.

Balakrishnan Manikantan is currently serving as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Air Command.

Balakrishnan Manikantan assumed the office on 1 May 2023 succeeding Air Marshal Jonnalagedda Chalapati.

Balakrishnan Manikantan holds a Post Graduate degree from Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Masters in Management Studies from College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and M Phil from National Defence College, New Delhi.

Balakrishnan Manikantan was commissioned as the helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force.

Balakrishnan Manikantan is a Helicopter combat leader and a Cat 'A' qualified flying instructor.

Balakrishnan Manikantan served as the commanding officer of No 152 Helicopter Unit and has taken part in the Indian Air Force contingent at UN Mission in Congo.

Balakrishnan Manikantan took part in the Operation Pawan, an operation against LTTE by Indian Peace Keeping Force and Operation Meghdoot.

Balakrishnan Manikantan took over as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Air Command on 1 May 2023 from Air Marshal Jonnalagedda Chalapati.

Balakrishnan Manikantan has been awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2025, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2017 and Vayu Sena Medal in 2006 for his service.