Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit takes charge as 51st Vice Chief of Air Staff

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit on Wednesday assumed charge as the 51st Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS), succeeding Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, who retired after nearly four decades of distinguished service in the Indian Air Force (IAF). Before taking over the new role, Air Marshal Dixit served as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), where he played a key role in strengthening tri-service integration and advancing India's joint military capabilities.

A highly decorated officer, Air Marshal Dixit was commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF in December 1986. A qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot, he has logged over 3,300 flying hours on more than 20 aircraft, including the Mirage-2000, MiG-21 and Jaguar. During his distinguished career, he has commanded operational fighter squadrons, major air bases and held several senior appointments at Air Headquarters. He also participated in Operation Safed Sagar during the Kargil War and Operation Rakshak.
Air Marshal Dixit has been honoured with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal for his exceptional service. His appointment comes at a time when the IAF is focusing on modernisation, capability enhancement and greater integration among the three armed services.