Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, who specializes in communication and electronic warfare, took charge as the 26th Navy chief in New Delhi on Tuesday following the retirement of incumbent R Hari Kumar. Admiral Tripathi, an alumnus of Sainik School Rewa, was previously serving as the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff before assuming command of the force.
Admiral Tripathi was born on May 15, 1964 and joined the executive branch of the Indian Navy on July 1, 1985.

He is a specialist in communication and electronic warfare, and has served with distinction for almost 39 years.

Before becoming Vice Chief of the Navy, he served as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command.
Admiral Tripathi has led Indian Naval Ships Vinash, Kirch, and Trishul.

He has also served in several significant operational and staff roles, such as fleet operations officer of the Western Fleet, director of naval operations, principal director of network-centric operations, and principal director of naval plans.

He served as the flag officer commanding of the eastern fleet while holding the rank of Rear Admiral.

He also held the position of Commandant at the esteemed Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala.

Admiral Tripathi, who is a graduate of the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, has completed courses at various military institutions including the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington, the Naval Higher Command Course in Karanja, and the Naval Command College in the United States.

He has been honored with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) and Nau Sena Medal (NM).

Admiral Hari Kumar retired after reaching the retirement age, having served for a period of forty years.