Sub Lieutenant Astha Poonia has created history by becoming the first woman to join the fighter pilot stream of the Indian Navy. With this achievement, she may one day fly the MiG-29K, a powerful fighter jet used on aircraft carriers.

She received the prestigious ‘Wings of Gold’ from Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Air), after successfully completing her training. Her entry into the fighter pilot stream is a proud moment for the Indian Navy and reflects its efforts towards gender inclusivity and the larger vision of ‘Nari Shakti’ (women power).

Women already serve as pilots and officers in maritime reconnaissance roles in the Navy. However, Astha’s selection as a fighter pilot marks a big step forward. This decision "not only shatters a long-standing glass ceiling but also sends a message that women officers are equally capable of matching their male counterparts in the most demanding combat roles."

Other navies around the world already have women flying combat aircraft. In the United States, women have been flying carrier-borne combat jets since the 1990s. In the United Kingdom, women pilots serve in both the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy.

Israel allowed women to fly in combat missions after removing restrictions in 1995. Even China has started training women for naval aviation, including fighter roles.

Astha Poonia’s achievement is not just personal—it is a milestone for women in India’s defence forces.

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