Breaking barriers & blazing paths: Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia becomes Indian Navy’s first woman maritime fighter pilot

Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia becomes the Indian Navy's first woman fighter pilot, marking a historic step towards gender equality in India's armed forces. She graduated from INS Dega, Visakhapatnam, and was awarded the 'Wings of Gold'.

Aastha Poonia

Aastha Poonia

time

In a landmark moment for gender equality in India’s armed forces, the Indian Navy on Friday inducted its first woman into the fighter pilot stream. Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia graduated from the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam, earning her place among the Navy’s elite fighter pilots.

This achievement marks a significant step forward in empowering women in combat roles. While women officers have long been inducted as pilots and Naval Air Operations Officers in maritime reconnaissance aircraft and helicopters, Aastha’s entry into the fighter stream breaks a new glass ceiling in Naval Aviation.

Wings of Gold and a New Era of Nari Shakti

Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia, along with Lieutenant Atul Kumar Dhull, was awarded the coveted ‘Wings of Gold’ by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air). Congratulating the officers, the Navy highlighted Aastha’s induction as a testament to its commitment towards gender inclusivity.

“Streaming of SLt Aastha Poonia into the Fighter Stream highlights the Indian Navy's dedication to fostering Nari Shakti and creating a culture of equality and opportunity in Naval Aviation,” the Navy said in a statement.

India’s Women in Combat: A Growing Legacy

This milestone follows the Indian Air Force’s historic move in 2016, when Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh became the country’s first women fighter pilots. Aastha Poonia now carries forward this legacy in the Indian Navy, paving the way for more women to enter combat flying roles.

Though the specific aircraft she will operate has not been confirmed, it is expected she will train to fly the MiG-29K — a naval fighter capable of carrier-based operations from INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.

A Beacon for Future Generations

Aastha Poonia’s historic achievement is more than a personal triumph; it is a symbol of progress and inclusivity in India’s defence forces. As she dons her wings and steps into the fighter cockpit, she inspires a generation of young women to aim for the skies — and beyond.

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