IAF Chief Ashutosh Dixit Unveils VAYU Vision, Prioritises Fighter Squadron Strength

Newly appointed Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit on Sunday outlined his priorities for the Indian Air Force (IAF), identifying the restoration of sanctioned fighter squadron strength, indigenous defence capabilities and jointness among the three services as key focus areas.

A day after assuming charge as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff, Dixit unveiled his vision under the acronym VAYU, representing Vigilance and operational readiness, Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), Yukti (tactical innovation) and Unity of effort across the tri-services.

Describing the security environment as demanding, he said warfare was being reshaped by emerging technologies, including drones, long-range precision weapons, space, cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence and the electromagnetic spectrum.

“The Air Force, while transforming into the force that India will need in the next decade, must always be ready to fight and win,” he said. Under the first pillar, Vigilance and readiness, Dixit stressed that every squadron, radar, air defence unit and air warrior must be prepared to respond at a moment's notice. Restoring the IAF's combat strength to its sanctioned level would be his foremost task, he added.

On self-reliance, the Air Chief said indigenous sensors, platforms and weapons would receive the highest priority. He emphasised the need to build domestic capabilities in sufficient numbers to sustain operational requirements. He said credible air power was essential not only to fight and win but also to deter conflict.

Elaborating on Yukti, Dixit highlighted innovation in operational doctrine, procedures and technology. The focus areas would include networked, AI-enabled command and control systems, layered counter-drone defences, responsive maintenance, force protection and resilience, alongside the use of near-space as an operational domain.

The fourth pillar, Unity of effort, calls for closer integration with the Army, Navy and national agencies under the vision of Jointness, Aatmanirbharta and Innovation.

“Air power delivers most when it is integrated from the very first plan,” he said. Assuring citizens of the IAF's preparedness, Dixit said the force remained vigilant, ready and resolute, reaffirming its commitment to continuous transformation and operational readiness whenever the nation calls.