Air Marshal Harish Masand was commissioned as a fighter pilot in December 1967. He soon saw action in the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 while flying Hunter aircraft wherein he won a Vir Chakra for gallantry. 

He has a yet unmatched and distinguished career spanning over almost four decades. He has come first in every course he did in the Air Force and accident free flying for him and all his subordinates. The Courts also confirmed his numero uno status when his case came up in 2004. He inducted the MiG-29 as a Squadron Commander in 1987 and the Su-30s as the Base Commander in 1997. He is well known for his expertise in planning, acquisitions, operations, accident prevention as well as his mastery and displays on the MiG-29.

He is a flying instructor, fighter combat leader, graduate of the Staff College and has served as an instructor in most establishments. He is also an alumnus of the Air War College in USA, Class of ‘93. After retirement in 2006, he settled down in Mhow, writing and speaking on defence and national security matters.