Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Named Next Chief of Air Staff

The central government has named Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit as the new Chief of the Air Staff. He is currently working as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff. He will take charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff and get the rank of Air Chief Marshal on the afternoon of October 31, 2026. He will replace Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who is set to retire on October 31, 2026.

Background

Dixit is an Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor with more than 3,500 hours of flying experience. He has held several key operational and strategic posts, such as Commander-in-Chief of the Strategic Forces Command and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command.

Context

Top military leadership changes in India follow planned retirement schedules for senior officers. These transitions ensure a smooth handover of command in the armed forces.