Meet Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia: Indian Navy’s 1st Female Fighter Pilot

In a nation where courage, resilience, and determination define its spirit, Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has etched her name in the annals of history as the Indian Navy’s first female fighter pilot. On July 3, 2025, at the hallowed grounds of INS Dega in Visakhapatnam, she received the prestigious ‘Wings of Gold’ from Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), marking a monumental milestone in Indian naval aviation.

This moment was not just a personal triumph for Sub Lt Poonia but a resounding testament to the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and the empowerment of women under the vision of Nari Shakti—a symbol of change, courage, and capability. Her journey is an inspiration, a beacon of hope, and a clarion call for young women across India to dream big and break barriers.

A Historic Milestone in Naval Aviation

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia’s induction into the fighter stream of the Indian Navy’s aviation arm is a groundbreaking achievement. The Indian Navy operates two aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, from which fighter pilots launch high-performance aircraft like the MiG-29K and, in the near future, the Rafale-M. These roles demand unparalleled skill, mental fortitude, and physical endurance, as pilots navigate the complexities of carrier-based operations on the high seas.

Until now, this elite cadre was exclusively male. Poonia’s entry shatters this long-standing glass ceiling, paving the way for a new era of women fighter pilots in the Navy.

The ‘Wings of Gold’ ceremony, where Poonia and her coursemate Lieutenant Atul Kumar Dhull were honored, was a celebration of grit and determination. Having completed the rigorous Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course on the Hawk 132 advanced jet trainer, Poonia proved her mettle in a training program designed to hone high-level combat skills.

This achievement is not just a personal victory but a reflection of the Navy’s progressive ethos. As a Navy spokesperson stated, “Streaming of Sub Lt Aastha Poonia into the Fighter Stream highlights the Indian Navy’s commitment towards gender inclusivity in Naval Aviation and promoting Nari Shakti, fostering a culture of equality and opportunity.”

The Making of a Trailblazer

Hailing from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia is a 24-year-old engineering graduate who joined the Indian Navy through the Short Service Commission route. Unlike many who come from military families, Poonia’s background is not rooted in the armed forces, making her journey even more remarkable. Her decision to pursue a career in naval aviation, a field known for its intensity and exclusivity, speaks volumes about her ambition and resolve.

Poonia’s path to becoming a fighter pilot was far from easy. The Hawk 132 advanced jet trainer, used by the Indian Navy since 2013, is a sophisticated platform that prepares pilots for the demands of frontline fighter jets. The training involves mastering complex maneuvers, developing split-second decision-making skills, and building the physical and mental resilience needed for combat aviation. Poonia’s success in this program is a testament to her dedication and ability to compete on equal footing with her male counterparts.

As she now embarks on a year-long advanced training program to qualify for operating the MiG-29K or the naval variant of the Rafale-M, her journey is just beginning.

Breaking Barriers and Redefining Possibilities

The Indian Navy’s decision to induct women into the fighter stream aligns with a broader transformation within the Indian armed forces. While women have served as pilots and naval air operations officers in maritime reconnaissance aircraft and helicopters, the fighter stream remained a male bastion until Poonia’s historic achievement.

Her induction follows in the footsteps of trailblazers like Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh, who in 2016 became the Indian Air Force’s first female fighter pilots, and Major Abhilasha, the first woman combat aviator in the Army Aviation Corps in 2021.

Poonia’s milestone is a powerful symbol of Nari Shakti, the Indian government’s initiative to empower women across all sectors. The Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity is evident in its 15% increase in female officer recruitment since 2020, reflecting a global trend toward diversity in military forces.

As Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently noted, “The induction of women in all roles is a matter of pride and a necessity for a modern, capable military.” Poonia’s success is expected to inspire a new generation of women to pursue careers in military aviation, challenging stereotypes and expanding the talent pool for India’s defence services.

A Beacon of Inspiration

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia’s story is more than a tale of personal achievement; it is a narrative of resilience, ambition, and the courage to venture into uncharted territory. Her journey reminds us that true strength lies in diversity and inclusion.

By stepping into the cockpit of a fighter jet, she is not only defying gravity but also societal norms that have long limited women’s roles in combat. Her achievement sends a powerful message: women are equally capable of excelling in the most demanding and high-stakes roles.

Poonia’s story resonates with young women across India and beyond, urging them to pursue their dreams relentlessly, regardless of the challenges. Whether it’s soaring through the skies or breaking barriers in science, technology, or any other field, her journey is a call to action.

As the Indian Navy aptly stated, “Sub Lt Aastha Poonia becomes the first woman to be streamed into the fighter stream of naval aviation, shattering barriers and paving the way for a new era of women fighter pilots in the Navy.”

The Road Ahead

As Sub Lt Poonia prepares for the next phase of her training, the nation watches with pride. Her potential to fly the MiG-29K or the Rafale-M from the decks of INS Vikramaditya or INS Vikrant places her at the forefront of naval aviation’s future.

With the Navy set to receive Rafale-M aircraft starting in 2028, Poonia could be among the first to pilot these cutting-edge jets, further cementing her legacy.

Her achievement is a reminder that progress is built on the courage of individuals who dare to challenge the status quo. It is also a testament to the Indian Navy’s vision of a modern, inclusive force that values meritocracy and equal opportunity.

As Poonia takes to the skies, she carries with her the aspirations of countless young women who see in her a reflection of their own potential.

Poonia’s historic accomplishment prompts a broader question: how can we, as a society, further support and encourage young women to break new ground in fields like defence, science, and technology?

The answer lies in fostering an environment that champions equality, provides access to education and opportunities, and celebrates the achievements of trailblazers like Poonia. Her story is a reminder that when we empower women to excel, we strengthen not just our institutions but the fabric of our nation.

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia’s journey embodies the values of courage, perseverance, and excellence. As she dons her ‘Wings of Gold’ and prepares to soar into the skies, she is not just a fighter pilot but a symbol of hope and progress for India.

Her legacy will inspire generations to come, proving that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning. Let us salute her courage and continue to create pathways for women to excel in every field, ensuring that the spirit of Nari Shakti continues to shine brightly.