Shivangi Singh, now 29, is the only woman flying India’s advanced Rafale fighter jets. Her dream began nearly 20 years ago when she first visited the Air Force Museum in New Delhi. That moment, she says, sparked her ambition to become a pilot.
Women in Combat Roles
Women were first inducted as fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2015. Singh is now one among many women officers reflecting India’s evolving defense forces and society. Her journey is also marked by personal milestones—she’s married to a fellow fighter pilot.
Breaking Ground with Rafale
Singh is the first Indian woman to operate the French-made single-seat Rafale jets. India recently signed a deal to procure 26 more Rafale aircraft from Dassault Aviation, expanding the fleet of 36 already in service. These jets are key to replacing older MiG aircraft and boosting India’s air defense amid rising regional tensions, including those with Pakistan and China.
Journey to the Cockpit
Originally from Varanasi, Singh excelled in both academics and athletics. She credits her mother for encouraging her to pursue independence and break traditional barriers. From her initial nerves in a MiG-21 cockpit to mastering the Rafale, Singh calls the experience “exhilarating” and says the aircraft feels tailored to the pilot.
India’s Women in Aviation
According to 2023 data, the Indian Air Force includes over 1,600 women officers, including numerous pilots. India also leads globally in the percentage of female commercial pilots, with women making up about 14% of the sector.
Eye on Space
Singh’s ambitions go beyond the skies. She hopes to be part of India’s upcoming manned space mission. Already applying for test pilot training, she aspires to become an astronaut and sees her career as proof that women can succeed in any field once dominated by men.
