Squadron Leader Priya Sharma Becomes Second Female Fighter Pilot in IAF's Tejas Squadron ‘Flying Bullets’
In a notable development for women in military aviation, Squadron Leader Priya Sharma has become a member of the prestigious No. 18 Squadron of the Indian Air Force. She is now the second female fighter pilot to fly the domestically produced LCA Tejas aircraft.
Squadron Leader Priya Sharma's achievement follows that of Squadron Leader Mohana Singh Jitarwal, who became the first woman to pilot the Tejas with the "Flying Bullets" squadron at Naliya Air Force Station in Gujarat, marking her historic flight in September 2024.
Commissioned as the seventh female fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force, Sqn Ldr Priya Sharma has shown outstanding professionalism and operational skills. Her transition to the advanced Tejas aircraft underscores her personal excellence as well as the Air Force’s commitment to modernization and indigenous defense technology.
Originating from Jhunjhunu district in Rajasthan, an area known for its rich military heritage, Priya Sharma is the third female fighter pilot from this region. Her early interest in aviation was influenced by her father, a current officer in the IAF.
Her formative experiences at Bidar Air Force Station, where she observed aircraft like Jaguars and Hawks, fueled her ambition to pursue a career in military aviation.
| Training and Early Career Milestones |
|---|
| Commissioned in December 2018 from the Air Force Academy, Dundigal |
| Only woman fighter pilot in her batch |
| Trained on older platforms, including the MiG-21 Bison |
| Participated in the ceremonial farewell for the MiG-21 |
Her proficiency with high-performance fighter jets provided a solid basis for transitioning to modern aircraft.
With her operational experience, Sqn Ldr Priya Sharma has now been inducted into No. 18 Squadron, where she operates the sophisticated LCA Tejas.
| Significance of Induction |
|---|
| Increasing role of women in frontline combat positions |
| Strengthening indigenous aviation capabilities |
| Boosting diversity and operational prowess in the IAF |
The inclusion of officers like Sqn Ldr Priya Sharma and Sqn Ldr Mohana Singh Jitarwal represents the Indian Air Force’s advancing stance on inclusivity and capability building.
Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration for young women throughout the nation aspiring to careers in defense and aviation.
The induction of a second female Tejas pilot highlights the Indian Air Force's dedication to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and gender inclusion, while simultaneously enhancing its combat readiness with capable and dedicated personnel.
