Air Commodore Kurumthodathil Cherian Phillipose was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the flying branch of the IAF on 28 Oct 1963. He took an active part in 1965 and 1971 Indo Pak conflicts. A qualified fighter combat leader (FCL), he was on the staff of Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment for a period of five years where he not only excelled as an instructor but also helped develop many new combat tactics. He has commanded a MiG­21 Squadron and has been the Chief Operation Officer of a major Air Force Wing equipped with fighters, transport and helicopters. He successfully completed Higher Command Course at College of Co­mbat and Long Defence Management Course at College of Defence Management and later distinguished himself as a directing staff at College of Air Warfare and at College of Defence Management, Hyderabad.

Air Commodore Phillipose took over as Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Jamnagar in Jun 1993. He used his vast and varied experience to ensure all round improvement of the Station and help augment its operational preparedness. Air Commodore Phillipose has been involved in every activity of the Station.

Air Commodore Kurumthodathil Cherian Phillipose has, thus, rendered distinguished service of an exceptional order.