Golden Arrows of Indian Air Force (IAF) has expressed grief over the passing of Air Chief Marshal (Retd) SK Kaul, PVSM, MVC, a trailblazing and an iconic officer in the Indian Air Force. Air Chief Marshal Kaul was the second Commodore Commandant of 17 Squadron, the Golden Arrows, a position he held with honour from 1985 to 1995. The Golden Arrows is a premier Fighter Squadron of the Indian Air Force based in Ambala.

Born on December 20, 1935, in Lucknow, Air Chief Marshal Kaul's remarkable journey began with his early schooling at Besant College, Varanasi, and later graduation from Government College, Allahabad. He joined the National Defence Academy in 1951 and was commissioned into the IAF in December 1954, starting his illustrious career flying Vampires with No. 17 Squadron at Adampur .

Air Chief Marshal Kaul's combat experience spanned multiple wars, including the 1965 War and the 1971 War, where he demonstrated exceptional bravery and leadership. His fearless leadership during the 1971 War earned him the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), a testament to his unwavering dedication to duty.

Throughout his 42 years' career, Air Chief Marshal Kaul held various key operational and strategic roles, shaping the IAF's modernization. He served as Chief of the Air Staff from 1993 to 1995, leading the IAF through a transformative phase, and later as Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee, coordinating tri-services strategy at the highest level.

In their Condolence message the Golden Arrows family said' Air Chief Marshal Kaul's legacy extends far beyond his impressive career. He embodied the values of service, courage, and leadership, inspiring generations of air warriors. His passing leaves a void in our hearts, but his memory will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence."