Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has assumed command as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff, unveiling ‘VAYU’, a four-pillar vision built on readiness, self-reliance, innovation and jointness. The framework aims to deliver a technologically advanced, indigenous and integrated Indian Air Force capable of deterring conflict through credible air power.
New Delhi: Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit PVSM AVSM VM VSM began his tenure as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force on 1 November 2026, starting the day with a tribute to those who gave their lives in the nation’s service.
He first paid homage at the National War Memorial, honouring the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice. A ceremonial Guard of Honour followed at Air Force Station New Delhi, marking the formal start of his term.
An Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor, the new Chief brings more than 3,500 hours of flying experience to the post. His career includes several key operational and strategic appointments: Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee at HQ IDS, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command, and Vice Chief of the Air Staff.
In his opening address, Air Chief Marshal Dixit set out his priorities under the guiding theme ‘VAYU’, the Sanskrit word for wind. Each letter stands for one of four pillars that he says will shape the service’s course.
The first, Vigilance, Victory and Readiness, calls for the highest state of operational preparedness across all formations. It also commits the service to restoring combat strength to sanctioned levels.
The second, Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance, focuses on accelerating indigenous capability across platforms, sensors, weapons and technologies. The aim is operational self-reliance and sustained combat capability.
The third, Yukti, stresses ingenuity and innovation in doctrine, technology and operational procedures. It covers AI-enabled command and control, counter-drone capabilities, resilience and emerging operational domains.
The fourth, Unity of Effort, is about strengthening jointness with the Army, Navy and national agencies. It is in step with the national vision of JAI: Jointness, Aatmanirbharta and Innovation.
Together, the four pillars set out a clear direction for an air force that is operationally ready, technologically advanced, self-reliant and seamlessly integrated. Air Chief Marshal Dixit said the Indian Air Force remains committed to safeguarding the nation’s interests and deterring conflict through credible air power.
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