Ashutosh Dixit takes charge as IAF chief, set to lead force through next phase of modernisation

Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit took charge as the 29th chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday, succeeding Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, who retired after 25 months in office. A decorated fighter pilot with more than 3,300 hours of flying experience, Dixit brings with him extensive operational and command experience, along with a background in joint military planning. He will lead the Indian Air Force until December 31, 2028. Dixit is the first former commanding officer of a Mirage-2000 squadron to become the IAF chief. He has also held several important positions, including Chief of Integrated…