Air Marshal Hupfeld has served in the RAAF for almost 40 years, and has been awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in recognition of his performance as commanding officer of Number 75 Squadron on Operation Falconer.

Outgoing chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Leo Davies, AO, CSC said it has been a privilege to lead the RAAF for the last four years.

"I have been fortunate to have spent most of my life in this wonderful institution with its long record of service to our nation," Air Marshal Davies said.

"I am grateful for the tireless support of my family throughout my career, and for the dedication and commitment of all the men and women of the RAAF during my time as chief."

Prior to being appointed chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Hupfeld served as chief joint operations.

At today's ceremony, Air Marshal Hupfeld said it was both an honour and a substantial responsibility to be taking over command of Air Force.

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"Our people are the key to our capability, and it is humbling to have been chosen to lead them," he said.

"I am grateful for the enduring legacy of Air Marshal Davies' leadership, with today's RAAF on a strong and solid vector for the future."

The newly appointed chief was born in Sydney in 1962. He joined the Air Force as a RAAF Academy Cadet in January 1980, winning the Flying Prize for his year and graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1983.

Air Marshal Hupfeld has taken on varied roles during his career and welcomed a multitude of promotions.

In September 2014 he was appointed head capability systems division in the Capability Development Group, and in 2015 Air Marshal Hupfeld received an appointment as officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the Australian Defence Force in senior command and staff appointments.

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