Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has become the first woman to enter the fighter pilot stream of the Indian Navy. Alongside Lt Atul Kumar Dhull, she was awarded the prestigious “Wings of Gold” after completing transitional fighter training on Hawk advanced jet trainers at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam.
Next Step: MiG-29K Training
Now in her early 20s, Sub-Lt Poonia will begin a one-year final training program to qualify as a MiG-29K pilot. This training includes mastering take-offs and landings on ski-jump ramps that simulate an aircraft carrier deck.
Significant Milestone for the Indian Navy
An officer said her selection into the fighter stream marks a historic step for the Navy and paves the way for more women in combat aviation roles. The MiG-29K is a carrier-based fighter aircraft capable of operating in challenging sea-based environments.
Following the IAF’s Lead
The Indian Air Force already has over 20 women fighter pilots. With Sub-Lt Poonia entering final training, the Indian Navy is now set to join the ranks of forces with women flying high-performance combat jets from aircraft carriers.
