New Delhi: Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit took charge as the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Central Air Command on September 1, 2024. With a distinguished career spanning over 37 years, Air Marshal Dixit brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.
Commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF on December 6, 1986, Air Marshal Dixit is an Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor, with over 3,300 hours of flying experience across various aircraft in the IAF fleet. He is an alumnus of the prestigious National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College in Bangladesh, and National Defence College. He has actively participated in several key operations, including Op-Safed Sagar and Op-Rakshak.
Throughout his career, Air Marshal Dixit has held numerous significant field and staff appointments. He commanded a frontline fighter air base in the Western Sector and a premier fighter training base in the Southern Sector, contributing significantly to the IAF’s operational readiness. His experience also includes serving as Principal Director of Air Staff Requirement at Air Headquarters, Air Defence Commander of Southern Air Command, and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Projects) and (Plans). Prior to his current appointment, he served as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff.
Known for his leadership in adopting future technologies, Air Marshal Dixit played a pivotal role in the IAF’s modernization efforts, ensuring a strong focus on self-reliance, or Atmanirbharta. In his new role, he aims to maintain Central Air Command’s operational readiness and ensure the IAF achieves its strategic goals.
In recognition of his exceptional service, Air Marshal Dixit has been awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India.