Ace Pilot Ashutosh Dixit Takes Command of IAF's Central Air Command

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the head of the Indian Air Force's Central Air Command, succeeding Air Marshal RGK Kapoor. With over 3,300 flying hours and significant operational experience, Dixit has played a critical role in advancing indigenous aircraft projects and modernization efforts within the IAF.

Ace fighter pilot Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit is assuming command of the Indian Air Force's Prayagraj-based Central Air Command on September 1. He succeeds Air Marshal RGK Kapoor, who retired today.

Commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF on December 6, 1986, Air Marshal Dixit is an Experimental Test Pilot and a Qualified Flying Instructor. He boasts over 3,300 flying hours on various aircraft in the IAF inventory. An alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College (Bangladesh), and National Defence College, Dixit has been involved in key operations such as Op Safed Sagar during the Kargil War and Op-Bakshak.

During his tenure as Commanding Officer, Dixit re-equipped an IAF squadron with the Mirage-2000 fighter aircraft and commanded both a 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 Southern Air Command and held key positions at Air Headquarters, including Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Projects) and Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Plans).

As the Deputy Chief of Air Staff, Dixit played a significant role in advancing the Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative for the defence forces. His tenure saw notable progress in indigenous aircraft projects, including the LCA Mark-1A, Mark-2, and AMCA. Dixit has driven the adoption of future technologies to ensure the IAF's modernization while emphasizing self-reliance. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)