Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Takes Charge as 29th Chief of Indian Air Force, Unveils ‘VAYU’ Vision

# Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Takes Charge as 29th Chief of Indian Air Force, Unveils ‘VAYU’ Vision **NEW DELHI, November 2, 2026:** Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has assumed charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force (IAF), succeeding Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh. After taking charge, Dixit outlined a new guiding vision called 'VAYU', which will shape the future priorities of the Indian Air Force. ### What Does VAYU Stand For? The vision is based on four key pillars: - **V – Vigilance, Victory and Readiness:** Maintaining operational preparedness across the Air Force. - **A – Aatmanirbharta:** Strengthening India's self-reliance in defence technology and equipment. - **Y – Yukti:** Encouraging innovation, technology and new operational capabilities. - **U – Unity of Effort:** Improving coordination with the Army, Navy and other national agencies. ### An Experienced Fighter Pilot Air Chief Marshal Dixit has more than 3,500 hours of flying experience and a career spanning approximately four decades. He has served in several important positions, including Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff. He has also contributed to the development and modernisation of India's military aviation capabilities. ### Focus on a Modern and Self-Reliant Air Force Under the VAYU vision, the Indian Air Force aims to strengthen operational readiness, encourage indigenous defence production and adopt emerging technologies. The new Chief's priorities include improving technological capabilities and strengthening coordination among India's armed forces. The vision outlines the Air Force's direction towards becoming a more technologically advanced, self-reliant and integrated force.