Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit appointed as next Indian Air Force Vice Chief
New Delhi, June 5
Ace fighter and test pilot Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff and will assume his new charge on July 1.
Presently, serving as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, the officer has played a key role in enhancing the jointness in the defence forces as they move towards Theaterisation.
Air Marshal Dixit has also been instrumental in promoting indigenous fighter projects in the Air Force during his different stints in the Air Headquarters. He has also played a key role in modernisation of the force.
The Air Marshal was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 06, 1986. He is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla; Defence Services Staff College (Bangladesh) and National Defence College, New Delhi.
He is a Qualified Flying Instructor and Experimental Test Pilot with over 3,300 hours of flying experience on over 20 types of aircraft, including Mirage-2000, MiG-21 & Jaguar.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit also commanded a premier Fighter Training Base in the Southern Sector, where his leadership led to the base being adjudged the best in the Command.
As a test pilot and later Commanding Officer of the Flight Test Squadron at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, Bengaluru, he was involved in several indigenous upgrades and development programmes, including the avionics upgrades for Jaguar & MiG-27. As Director of Air Staff Requirements, he played a key role in the planning and conduct of the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft trials.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive credentials - 3300 hours on 20+ aircraft types including MiG-21 and Mirage-2000. Having someone who's actually flown these jets at the second-highest position is reassuring. The focus on theaterisation is crucial for modern warfare.
Good to see an officer with hands-on experience in indigenous programs rising to the top. But I hope the focus on theaterisation doesn't dilute IAF's independent operational capability. Jointness is fine, but each force must retain its core strengths. Just a thought...
This is excellent news for India's aerospace sector. A test pilot who was directly involved in avionics upgrades and MMRCA trials brings technical depth that's rare at senior levels. With LCA Tejas and AMCA coming up, his experience will be invaluable. 🇮🇳
Interesting choice! The fact that he commanded a fighter training base that became the best in its command shows he's not just a technical expert but also a good leader. Training is the backbone of any air force. Wishing him all the best!
Honestly, I'm tired of seeing the same pattern - another NDA/DSSC/NDC alumnus taking top posts. When will we see officers from diverse backgrounds? Not questioning his capability, but the system needs more transparency. Still, best wishes for his tenure. 🤷♂️
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