Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Becomes Vice Chief of the Air Staff

On 1st of July, 2026 Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has assumed the charge as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS). He succeeds Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, who was retired after four decades of long distinguished service. Along with him, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh took over as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC).

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit Becomes Vice Chief of the Air Staff

On 1st of July 2026, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has officially assumed office as the Vice Chief of the Air Staff at Vayu Bhawan, which is the headquarters of the Indian Air Force.

He was awarded a ceremonial Guard of Honour during the change of command and succeeds the Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, who was retired on 30th June, 2026.

As the Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Dixit will assist the Chief of the Air Staff and oversee the operational preparedness, modernization, administration and strategic planning of the Indian Air Force.

Distinguished Career in the Indian Air Force

He was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on December 6th, 1986, Air Marshal Dixit has built the illustrious career spanning nearly four decades.

Throughout his service, he has held the several critical operational and command appointments and has earned recognition for his professional excellence.

Key Career Highlights

• He was Commissioned into the IAF in 1986
• Qualified Flying Instructor
• Experimental Test Pilot
• More than 3,300 flying hours
• Experience on over 20 aircraft types
• Commanded Mirage-2000 Squadron
• Led a frontline fighter base in the western sector
• Commanded a premier fighter training establishment

Leadership Positions Held by Air Marshal Dixit

Over the period of years, he has served in the several important roles within the Air Force.

Major Appointments

• Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC)
• Air Defence Commander, Southern Air Command
• Senior Air Staff Officer, South Western Air Command
• Director of Air Staff Requirements
• Commanding Officer, Flight Test Squadron
• Commander of Mirage-2000 Squadron

Air Marshal Tejinder Singh Takes Charge of CISC

After the Air Marshal Dixit’s promotion, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh has assumed the charge as the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC).

He was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 13th June, 2026 and he is an experienced fighter pilot and military leader.

His qualifications includes the,

• National Defence Academy (NDA)
• Defence Services Staff College (DSSC)
• National Defence College (NDC)