New IAF chief Ashutosh Dixit outlines VAYU priorities for combat readiness
Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit aims to restore sanctioned combat strength and boost self-reliance under his new framework.
Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit outlined his strategic priorities under the ‘VAYU’ acronym on Sunday, one day after assuming charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff. Dixit took over the role on Saturday, succeeding Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh.
The VAYU framework focuses on vigilance and readiness, representing the 'V'. Dixit stated that every radar, air defence unit, squadron, and Air Warrior must be prepared to respond immediately, noting that restoring combat strength to sanctioned levels is a primary task.
The 'A' stands for Aatmanirbharta, or self-reliance. Dixit identified the Tejas Mk1A, Tejas Mk2, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, and Indian sensors and weapons as essential, stating the force will use Indian solutions to meet operational needs.
Under 'Y' for Yukti, or ingenuity, the chief emphasised innovation in technology and doctrine. This includes AI-enabled command and control, layered counter-drone defence, and the use of near-space as an operational domain.
The 'U' in the framework stands for unity of effort. Dixit noted the importance of joint planning and operations with national agencies, the Navy, and the Army to ensure air power is integrated from the initial planning stage.
Dixit also pledged to focus on the welfare, morale, and training of Air Warriors, Agniveervayu, civilian employees, and veterans. He thanked Singh for handing over a force that is in a high state of operational readiness.