Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi assumed the role of India’s 26th Chief of Naval Staff, succeeding Admiral R Hari Kumar, who retired upon superannuation after a distinguished career in the Indian Navy. Admiral Tripathi, an alumnus of Sainik School Rewa and the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, was commissioned into the executive branch of the Indian Navy on July 1, 1985.
Specializing in Communication and Electronic Warfare, Admiral Tripathi commanded warships such as corvette INS Vinash, Kirch, and Trishul. He served on frontline warships as Signal Communication Officer and Electronic Warfare Officer, and later as the Executive Officer and Principal Warfare Officer of the Guided Missile Destroyer INS Mumbai.
In his address upon assuming office, Admiral Tripathi expressed his commitment to ensuring operational readiness and deterring potential adversities at sea, stating, “I am deeply honored to be appointed as twenty-sixth Chief of the Naval Staff of the Indian Navy.” He acknowledged the Navy’s evolution into a Combat, Cohesive, Credible, and Future-Proof Force, and emphasized strengthening efforts towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and embracing new technologies.
Admiral Tripathi highlighted the importance of upskilling the Navy’s personnel and providing them with the best armament, training, professional environment, and administrative support. His nearly 40-year career includes significant operational and staff appointments, such as Fleet Operations Officer of the Western Fleet, Director of Naval Operations, and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command.
Admiral Tripathi has undergone various courses, including at the Signal School in Kochi, Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, and the United States Naval War College. Prior to his appointment as Chief of the Naval Staff, he served as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff.