Every squadron, air defence unit, air warrior must be ready to respond at moment’s notice: IAF Chief Dixit

On November 1, 2026, newly appointed Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit outlined his top priorities for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Restoring the IAF's sanctioned fighter squadron strength, advancing self-reliance in platforms and weapon systems, and ensuring tri-services synergy were his primary objectives, which he grouped under the acronym VAYU - Vigilance and operational readiness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), Yukti (tactical innovation), and Unity of effort across the tri-services.

Dixit emphasized the critical need for the IAF to maintain vigilance and operational readiness, stressing that every squadron, radar, and air defence unit must be prepared to respond at a moment's notice. He also highlighted the importance of self-reliance, asserting that Indian sensors, platforms, and weapons would be the force's top priority. The Air Chief Marshal explained that the IAF must fight with Indian solutions to deter conflict through credible air power.

The concept of Yukti, or ingenuity, was also a key focus area for Dixit. He outlined plans for innovation in doctrine, procedures, and technology, including networked, AI-enabled command and control, layered counter-drone defence, responsive maintenance, and the use of near-space as an operational domain for the Air Force.

The Chief of Air Staff also stressed the importance of Unity of effort, emphasizing that the IAF would plan and fight as one with the Army, Navy, and national agencies, in line with the Joint Vision for Integrated Air Campaign (JAI). Air power delivers the most when integrated from the very first plan, Dixit noted.

Addressing his fellow citizens, Dixit expressed confidence in the IAF's vigilance, readiness, and resoluteness, promising that its commitment remains clear: to remain ready, to keep transforming, and to deliver whenever the nation calls.