Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit takes charge as 29th Chief of the Air Staff; ‘VAYU’ to serve as key guiding principle
New Delhi: Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit on Sunday assumed command as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force. He outlined his priorities, focusing on national security, the combat capability of the Air Force, and self-reliance (Atmanirbharta).
Upon assuming charge as Air Chief Marshal, Dixit visited the National War Memorial to pay tributes to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. He expressed his gratitude to the President, the Prime Minister, and the Defence Minister for the trust they have placed in him.
Commending the leadership of his predecessor, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, he noted that the Indian Air Force demonstrated precise and decisive air power during ‘Operation Sindoor’. He remarked that he has inherited an exceptionally strong and operationally ready Air Force.
‘VAYU’ – The new guiding principle for the Air Force
The Air Chief has encapsulated his priorities under the acronym ‘VAYU’. Explaining the acronym he said,
#V – Vigilance & Readiness: Maintaining constant vigilance and combat readiness. Ensuring that every squadron, radar station, air defence unit, and air warrior is prepared for an immediate response.
#A – Atmanirbharta (Self-Reliance): Prioritising platforms such as the Tejas Mk-1A, Tejas Mk-2, and AMCA, alongside indigenous sensors and weaponry. Strengthening combat capabilities through homegrown technology.
#Y – Yukti (Innovation): Developing new technologies, including AI-based command systems, anti-drone defences, enhanced maintenance protocols, and space-based capabilities.
#U – Unity of Effort: Strengthening joint military strategies and operations in coordination with the Indian Army, the Indian Navy, and other national agencies.
The Air Chief Marshal highlighted that technologies such as drones, long-range precision weapons, cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, and space-based systems are rapidly transforming the nature of warfare. In this context, the Indian Air Force must remain prepared for the challenges of the future. He also identified strengthening the Air Force’s combat squadrons as a key priority.
Special focus on Air Warriors and their families
The Air Force Chief stated that the welfare of Air Warriors, Agniveervayu, civilian staff, veterans, Veer Naris (brave women—widows of fallen soldiers), and their families will remain a priority. Special emphasis will be placed on ensuring proper training, high morale, safety, and dignity, he added.
He assured the nation that the Indian Air Force remains vigilant, prepared, and resolute. In times of national need, the Air Force will be ready to meet any challenge, he said.