Vice Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Doctrine, Organisation & Training) on June 1, 2026.
Prior to taking over the prestigious tri-services appointment, Vice Admiral Dhankhar served as Director General Project Seabird, overseeing the development of critical naval infrastructure and strategic maritime capabilities.
He succeeds Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, who has moved on to assume the appointment of Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
On the occasion, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), along with all ranks of the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, congratulated Vice Admiral Dhankhar and extended their best wishes for a successful tenure.
As Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Doctrine, Organisation & Training), Vice Admiral Dhankhar will play a crucial role in advancing joint military doctrines, enhancing interoperability among the three Services and promoting greater integration across the Armed Forces.
His appointment comes at a significant time as the Indian military continues to pursue reforms aimed at strengthening jointness, theatre-level integration and tri-services operational synergy.
Officials noted that Vice Admiral Dhankhar’s assumption of charge will ensure continuity in efforts to develop joint operational concepts, modernise organisational structures and strengthen integrated training frameworks across the Army, Navy and Air Force.
With extensive experience in operational, staff and leadership appointments, the Flag Officer is expected to contribute significantly to the ongoing transformation of India’s higher defence organisation and the advancement of integrated military capabilities.
His appointment reinforces the commitment of the Integrated Defence Staff towards building a more cohesive, agile and future-ready military force capable of addressing emerging security challenges across all domains.
