On May 1, 2025, the Indian Armed Forces witnessed a pivotal leadership change with the appointment of Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit as the new Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) who takes over the position from Retired Lt Gen JP Mathew. This key tri-service position underscores India’s commitment to enhancing jointness and operational synergy among its military services—Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Also Read: Interesting Facts about Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, New Commander-in-Chief of Northern Army Command
Here are some interesting facts about him:
1. A Distinguished Career in the Skies
Air Marshal Dixit brings with him nearly four decades of rich experience in the Indian Air Force. Commissioned on December 6, 1986, from the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, he has evolved from a frontline fighter pilot to one of the most respected strategic leaders in Indian defense.
A Mirage 2000 pilot with over 3,300 hours of flying experience, he has led from the cockpit as well as the command post. His tenure as the Commanding Officer of No. 9 Squadron is marked by operational excellence and leadership under pressure.
2. Noteworthy Roles and Achievements
Over the years, Air Marshal Dixit has held several prestigious appointments:
- Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command (from September 1, 2024)
- Deputy Chief of Air Staff
- Senior Air Staff Officer, South Western Air Command
- Assistant Chief of Air Staff, Air Headquarters
- Commanding Officer of various fighter bases and training schools
- Directing Staff at the Air Force Test Pilots School
His role as a qualified flying instructor and experimental test pilot showcases his technical expertise and deep understanding of air operations and pilot training.
3. Veteran of Key Operations
Air Marshal Dixit has also actively participated in critical military operations, including:
- Operation Rakshak – Counter-insurgency operations
- Operation Safed Sagar – Aerial campaign during the Kargil War
His on-ground and in-air experience during these operations provided him with firsthand insights into the complexities of modern warfare.
4. Driving Modernization and Self-Reliance
A staunch advocate of the Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative, Air Marshal Dixit has been instrumental in pushing forward key indigenous programs like:
- LCA Tejas Mk-1A and Mk-2
- Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
These initiatives are crucial for reducing India’s dependency on foreign defense equipment and strengthening its homegrown capabilities.
5. Decorated with Honors
His exceptional service has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards:
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) – 2023
- Vayu Sena Medal (VM) – 2006
- Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) – 2011
These accolades reflect not only his professional brilliance but also his unwavering commitment to national service.
What His Role as CISC Entails?
As the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, Air Marshal Dixit now plays a vital role in coordinating strategies, operations, and doctrines across India’s three armed forces. This position, just below the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), is central to the country’s efforts toward joint warfighting capabilities, inter-service interoperability, and integrated defense plannin
Air Marshal Dixit’s appointment comes at a time when the Indian military is undergoing a significant transformation. From restructuring command hierarchies to enhancing theater-level joint operations, the defense forces are gearing up for future warfare, where speed, synergy, and innovation will be paramount.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit’s career reflects an extraordinary blend of combat experience, visionary leadership, and dedication to modernization. As the new CISC, he stands at the helm of India’s tri-service integration, playing a decisive role in shaping the country’s defense posture in the 21st century.
