Prior to his appointment, Asghar was the air force deputy chief.

He replaces Gen Ackbal Abdul Samad, who will go on mandatory retirement in September.

The pinning of the rank of General on Asghar was made by Ackbal himself and witnessed by Defence Forces chief Gen Affendi Buang at a ceremony at the RMAF base here today.

Asghar said he would use his experience as RMAF deputy chief for the past two years serving under Ackbal to further strengthen the air force.

“We have gone through many challenges, with the country facing the Covid-19 pandemic and we will continue with our efforts in leading the team.

“I wish to thank all for their faith in me to lead RMAF,” he said at a press conference after the retirement parade for the 19th RMAF chief.

Selangor-born Asghar, 57, joined the armed forces in 1983 as a cadet officer at the Royal Military College before starting his military career as a fighter pilot with RMAF in 1985.

He has flown the A4 Skyhawk fighter jet, the F-5E, the MiG-29N and the Sukhoi 30MKM.

He has held various positions in RMAF and the armed forces as a staff member, trainer and commander.

Air operations commander Lt-Gen Mohammad Salleh Osman has been appointed RMAF deputy chief.