Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has officially assumed the role of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force's Central Air Command. He succeeds Air Marshal RGK Kapoor, who retired on August 31, 2024.
Commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6, 1986, Air Marshal Dixit is an accomplished Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor with over 3,300 flying hours on a diverse range of aircraft. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, the Defence Services Staff College in Bangladesh, and the National Defence College, he has played pivotal roles in critical operations such as Op Safed Sagar during the Kargil War and Op-Rakshak.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning more than 37 years, Air Marshal Dixit has held several significant field and staff appointments. As Commanding Officer, he led the re-equipment of an IAF squadron with Mirage-2000 fighter jets and commanded both a strategic front-line fighter air base in the Western Sector and a premier fighter training base in the Southern Sector. He has also served as Air Defence Commander of the Southern Air Command and held influential roles at Air Headquarters, such as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects) and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans).
As Deputy Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Dixit was instrumental in advancing the Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative within the defence forces. Under his leadership, significant strides were made in indigenous aircraft projects, such as the LCA Mark-1A, Mark-2, and AMCA. He championed the adoption of cutting-edge technologies to modernize the IAF, all while maintaining a strong focus on achieving self-reliance.
In his new role, Air Marshal Dixit aims to enhance the operational readiness of the Central Air Command in all scenarios. His top priority will be to ensure that the IAF achieves its goals successfully, leveraging his extensive experience and strategic vision.
In recognition of his meritorious services, Air Marshal Dixit has been awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India.
Air Marshal Dixit's appointment marks a significant step forward for the Central Air Command, promising a future of enhanced capabilities and strategic advancements.