Meet Squadron Leader Mohana Singh Jitarwal: The First Woman Tejas Fighter Jet Pilot

In the vast skies above India, a new chapter in aviation history has been written by Squadron Leader Mohana Singh Jitarwal, the first woman fighter pilot to command the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. Her groundbreaking achievement not only shatters long-standing gender barriers but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless women across the nation. Mohana’s story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her dreams, proving that the sky is no limit when passion meets perseverance.

Early Life and Inspiration

Born on January 22, 1992, in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, Mohana Singh Jitarwal hails from a family steeped in military tradition. Her father, Pratap Singh Jitarwal, served as a Master Warrant Officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF), while her grandfather, a flight gunner in the Aviation Research Centre, was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra for his bravery. Growing up surrounded by tales of valor and service, Mohana developed a deep sense of patriotism and an ambition to soar high in the skies.

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Her childhood was marked by a blend of academic excellence and extracurricular enthusiasm. She completed her schooling at The Air Force School in New Delhi, where she was exposed to the disciplined environment of military life. Later, she pursued a BTech in Electronics & Communication from the Global Institute of Management and Emerging Technologies in Amritsar, Punjab. Beyond academics, Mohana’s hobbies—roller skating, badminton, singing, and painting—reflected her vibrant and multifaceted personality. Yet, her heart was set on one goal: to become a fighter pilot, a dream inspired by her family’s legacy and her own unyielding determination.

Breaking Barriers in the Indian Air Force

In 2016, the Indian government made a historic decision to open the fighter pilot stream to women on an experimental basis, a move that challenged decades of tradition in the male-dominated armed forces. Mohana Singh Jitarwal, along with Bhawana Kanth and Avani Chaturvedi, seized this opportunity to etch their names in history. The trio became the first women to be inducted as fighter pilots in the IAF, formally commissioned by then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in June 2016.

This milestone was more than a personal triumph for Mohana; it was a watershed moment for gender equality in India’s military. The induction of women into combat roles signaled a shift in societal norms, opening doors for future generations to pursue careers previously deemed unattainable. Mohana’s journey to this point was not without challenges. The rigorous training, high expectations, and societal scrutiny tested her resolve, but her passion for flying kept her focused.

Her early career saw her flying MiG-21 Bison aircraft with the No. 3 ‘Cobras’ Squadron at Nal Air Force Station near Bikaner, Rajasthan. In June 2019, she achieved another first by becoming fully operational by day on the Hawk Mk.132, logging over 380 incident-free flying hours at Kalaikunda Air Force Station. These accomplishments showcased her skill and dedication, earning her respect among her peers and superiors.

Flying the Tejas: A Historic Milestone

In 2024, Mohana Singh Jitarwal achieved her most celebrated feat yet: becoming the first woman fighter pilot to fly the LCA Tejas, India’s indigenously developed fighter jet. She joined the elite 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ Squadron, based at Naliya Air Force Station in Gujarat, near the border with Pakistan. The Tejas, a symbol of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, is a state-of-the-art aircraft equipped with modern technology, and Mohana’s role in piloting it underscores her exceptional capabilities.

Her participation in the ‘Tarang Shakti’ multilateral air exercise in Jodhpur further highlighted her prowess. During this event, she not only flew the Tejas but also instructed the Vice Chiefs of the Indian Army and Navy during a historic flight, demonstrating the IAF’s trust in her expertise. This exercise, which included participation from global air forces like those of the US, Greece, and Australia, showcased India’s growing military capabilities and Mohana’s pivotal role in representing the nation.

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A Role Model for Aspiring Pilots

Mohana Singh’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of perseverance and passion. Despite the weight of societal expectations and the challenges of being a pioneer, she has remained steadfast in her pursuit of excellence. In her own words, “कई बार अनकहे एक्सपेक्टेशंस G-सूट से भी भारी लगते थे... लेकिन हार मानना? वो मेरी चेकलिस्ट में कभी था ही नहीं” (Many times unspoken expectations felt heavier than the G-suit... but giving up? It was never on my checklist). This quote encapsulates her resilience and determination, qualities that have defined her career.

Her contributions have been widely recognized. In 2020, she was honored with the Nari Shakti Puraskar, awarded by President Ram Nath Kovind, for her role in empowering women. This accolade, along with her historic achievements, has made her a role model for young women aspiring to break barriers in any field, particularly in the armed forces.

Mohana’s story also highlights the IAF’s commitment to gender equality. Since 2016, around 20 women have joined the fighter pilot stream, with Mohana’s contemporaries, Bhawana Kanth and Avani Chaturvedi, now flying Su-30 MKI jets in the western desert. Together, they represent a new era of inclusivity and opportunity in the military.

Personal Life and Legacy

At 32, Mohana Singh Jitarwal balances her demanding career with a personal life grounded in family values. She is married to Mohit, a businessman, and continues to draw strength from her parents—her father, Pratap Singh, and her mother, Manju Singh, a teacher. Her family’s support has been instrumental in her success, reinforcing the importance of a strong foundation in achieving one’s dreams.

Mohana’s legacy extends beyond her individual achievements. She has become a symbol of progress, inspiring not only women but also communities like her native Jhunjhunu, where her accomplishments are celebrated with pride. Her story encourages parents to support their daughters’ ambitions, as evidenced by local sentiments urging families to provide higher education and opportunities for girls.

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Conclusion

Squadron Leader Mohana Singh Jitarwal’s journey is a narrative of courage, skill, and unwavering determination. From her childhood dreams in Rajasthan to her historic flights in the LCA Tejas, she has redefined what is possible for women in India’s armed forces. Her achievements are a proud moment for the nation, reflecting India’s strides toward gender equality and self-reliance in defense.

As Mohana continues to soar high, she leaves behind a trail of inspiration for countless others to follow. Her story is a reminder that with passion, perseverance, and the courage to challenge stereotypes, the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

Key Achievements of Squadron Leader Mohana Singh Jitarwal

Achievement	Details	Year
First Female Fighter Pilot	One of the first three women inducted as fighter pilots in the IAF, alongside Bhawana Kanth and Avani Chaturvedi.	2016
Fully Operational on Hawk Mk.132	Became the first woman fighter pilot to achieve full operational status by day, with over 380 incident-free flying hours.	2019
Nari Shakti Puraskar	Awarded by President Ram Nath Kovind for contributions to women’s empowerment.	2020
First Woman to Fly LCA Tejas	Joined the 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ Squadron to pilot the indigenously developed Tejas fighter jet.	2024
‘Tarang Shakti’ Exercise	Instructed Vice Chiefs of Army and Navy during a historic flight in the LCA Tejas.	2024