[1] Naik was born on 22 July 1949 at Nagpur, Maharashtra and was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 21 June 1969 as a fighter pilot.

He is an alumnus of Sainik School, Satara and National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla in Maharashtra.

During his 42 years of service, he has served in a variety of command staff and instructional appointments.

Besides being a fellow of the National Defence College, New Delhi, Naik is a Qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader.

He has served as Directing staff at DSSC Wellington, India and at Tactics & Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE).