NEW AIR CHIEF ASHUTOSH DIXIT UNVEILS ‘VAYU’ VISION, PRIORITISES COMBAT READINESS AND INDIGENOUS DEFENCE

November 1, 2026

Newly appointed Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the Indian Air Force (IAF), placing operational readiness, indigenous defence capabilities, technological innovation and coordination among the three armed services at the centre of his priorities. In his first public address after assuming charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff, Dixit introduced the four-pillar framework titled ‘VAYU’.

The acronym represents Vigilance and operational readiness, Aatmanirbharta or self-reliance, Yukti or tactical innovation, and Unity of effort across the Army, Navy and Air Force. Dixit said restoring the IAF's fighter squadron strength towards its sanctioned level would be his foremost task, stressing that every squadron, radar installation, air defence unit and air warrior must remain prepared to respond at short notice.

Emphasising indigenous defence production, the Air Chief identified Indian platforms, sensors and weapon systems as the force's highest priorities. He highlighted the importance of developing and deploying domestic capabilities in sufficient numbers to meet operational requirements, specifically pointing to the need for credible air power to deter potential conflicts.

Under the innovation pillar, Dixit highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence-enabled command-and-control systems, networked operations, layered counter-drone defence, responsive maintenance and improved force protection. He also identified resilience and the use of near-space as emerging operational areas requiring sustained attention as the character of warfare evolves.

Addressing the need for greater coordination among the armed forces, Dixit said air power delivers its greatest effectiveness when integrated into military planning from the earliest stages. He reaffirmed the IAF's commitment to working closely with the Army, Navy and national agencies under the broader framework of jointness, self-reliance and innovation.

The new Air Chief also pointed to the changing nature of modern warfare, shaped by drones, long-range precision weapons, space-based capabilities, cyber operations, artificial intelligence and the electromagnetic spectrum. He said the IAF must continue transforming itself to meet India's security requirements over the coming decade while maintaining its ability to respond whenever the nation calls.