Air Chief Marshal AP Singh Pays Tribute at National War Memorial Ahead of Handover to Ashutosh Dixit

New Delhi: Outgoing Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on Saturday, paying solemn tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in service of the nation. The ceremony marked one of his final official engagements ahead of the leadership transition in the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Air Chief Marshal AP Singh is retiring on October 31 after completing over four decades of distinguished military service. His tenure witnessed significant developments in India's air defence capabilities, operational preparedness and military modernisation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had earlier commended the outgoing Air Chief for his leadership, contributions to strengthening the IAF and role during Operation Sindoor.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, currently serving as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, has been appointed the 29th Chief of the Air Staff, effective from the afternoon of October 31, 2026. He will assume the rank of Air Chief Marshal upon taking charge.

Commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF on December 6, 1986, Dixit brings nearly four decades of extensive operational and strategic experience. An Experimental Test Pilot and Qualified Flying Instructor, he has accumulated more than 3,500 flying hours on aircraft including the Mirage-2000, MiG variants, Jaguar, Hawk and Tejas.

He has previously served as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee, and Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command.

His operational experience includes participation in Operation Safed Sagar, Operation Rakshak and Operation Sindoor.

The leadership transition comes as the Indian Air Force continues its focus on indigenous defence capabilities, advanced combat platforms, operational readiness and modernisation.

The ceremonial farewell symbolises continuity in military leadership and honours the IAF's enduring commitment to national security, professionalism and service to the nation.