The Indian Air Force has got a new Chief on 31 October 2026. Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has taken charge as the 29th Air Force Chief of the country. The current Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh’s tenure ends on October 31. Dixit has extensive experience in flying fighter aircraft, military operations and defense planning. He has held many important positions in his career. He has also played a role in promoting defense technology, including the indigenous fighter aircraft Tejas.
When did you join the Air Force?
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit was born on 9 December 1966. He joined the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on 6 December 1986. He is educated at National Defense Academy (NDA), Defense Service Staff College and National Defense College.
Experience
Dixit has over 3,500 hours of flying experience. He has flown more than 20 types of aircraft. He has also worked as a test pilot and flying instructor. In his long military career, he has held operational and administrative responsibilities.
Experience in combat aircraft and defense plans
Dixit was responsible for equipping No. 9 Squadron with Mirage-2000 fighter planes. After this he commanded a forward combat air force station in the western sector and a major fighter training base in the southern sector.
He has also served as the Air Defense Commander in the Southern Air Command. Apart from this, he served in the important positions of Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects) and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans) at the Air Force Headquarters. In these roles he gained experience in military projects, operational requirements and future defense plans.
Also played an important role during Operation Sindoor
Air Marshal Dixit was serving as Chief of Integrated Defense Staff during Operation Sindoor. In July 2026, he was made the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Indian Air Force. Now he will take charge of the Air Force. Given his experience, he is expected to play an important role in strengthening the Air Force’s operational readiness and adoption of modern technology.
Has been honored with several military honors
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has received many prestigious honors for military services. He was awarded the Air Force Medal in 2006, the Distinguished Service Medal in 2011, the Ati Vishishtha Seva Medal in 2023 and the Param Vishishtha Seva Medal in 2026.
His experience in promoting indigenous defense technology and aircraft like the LCA Tejas is also considered important. As the Air Force Chief, he will have the responsibility to address changing security challenges, enhance combat capability and encourage indigenous defense apparatus under a self-reliant India. According to the government order, his tenure will last till 31 December 2028.
