The government has appointed Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit as the next Chief of the Indian Air Force, making him the 29th Chief of the Air Staff. He will take charge on October 31, 2026, succeeding Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who retires on the same day.
Nearly Four Decades of Service
Currently serving as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Dixit was commissioned into the IAF’s fighter stream on December 6, 1986. He has more than 3,500 hours of flying experience and has flown aircraft including the Mirage-2000, MiG variants, Jaguar, Hawk and Tejas.
He is also an Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor.
Experience in Major Operations
During his career, Dixit has been associated with several major operations and exercises, including Operation Safed Sagar, Operation Rakshak and Operation Sindoor. He has also commanded the IAF’s Central Air Command and served as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff.
Strong Focus on Indigenous Defence
Dixit has been closely associated with the development and induction of indigenous aircraft programmes, including the LCA Tejas. His appointment comes at a time when the IAF is focusing heavily on modernisation, indigenous defence production and strengthening its operational capabilities.
Will Serve Until December 2028
According to the government notification, Dixit will assume the rank of Air Chief Marshal when he takes charge and will serve until December 31, 2028.
His nearly four decades of experience in fighter operations, testing, training and senior command appointments will now shape his leadership of the Indian Air Force during its ongoing modernisation drive.
From flying the Mirage-2000 and Tejas to leading the IAF, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit is set to take charge as India’s next Air Chief.