Sub Lt Aastha Poonia Makes History as Indian Navy's First Female Fighter Pilot

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has made history by becoming the first woman to be trained as a fighter pilot in the Indian Navy. This significant achievement is a milestone in gender integration within the Indian Armed Forces, representing a step towards a more inclusive combat force. Her entry into the Navy's elite fighter stream has been celebrated by both the defense community and the public.

Who is Sub Lt Aastha Poonia?

In her early 20s, Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia comes from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Despite not having a military background, her determination and dedication to serving the nation in a combat capacity have been clear.

She earned a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree before joining the Indian Navy through the Short Service Commission (SSC) route. Her academic background has been essential for her technically demanding naval aviation career.

Aastha Poonia's military journey began at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala. She then received basic flying training at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, where she trained on the Pilatus PC-7 Mk II aircraft, a standard trainer for novice military aviators.

After her basic training, she advanced to flying the Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam. As part of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course, she was prepared for the challenging role of a fighter pilot.

Wings of Gold and Fighter Induction

On July 3, 2025, Sub Lt Poonia was awarded the "Wings of Gold," symbolizing her status as a qualified naval aviator. The honor was presented by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), during a ceremony at INS Dega.

She will now pursue further advanced training on the Hawk AJT, with plans to qualify to fly the MiG-29K, India's frontline carrier-based fighter jet, from aircraft carriers like INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.

Why Her Achievement Matters

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has made history as the first woman in the Indian Navy to join the fighter aircraft branch. Previously, women officers in the Navy were limited to roles in maritime reconnaissance, helicopter operations, and transport aviation. This milestone marks a significant move towards integrating women into frontline combat roles.

This development builds on previous achievements by women in naval aviation. In 2019, Lt Shivangi Singh became the first woman pilot in the Indian Navy, but her role was limited to non-fighter operations. Aastha Poonia’s induction into the fighter stream signifies a new chapter, where women are being prepared for high-speed aerial combat and carrier-based fighter roles.

This accomplishment also mirrors progress in the Indian Air Force, which began allowing women into its fighter stream in 2016. Figures such as Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh have flown frontline fighter jets, proving women's capabilities in demanding combat situations. Poonia's success adds the Indian Navy to the list of services embracing women in elite combat roles.

Official Recognition and Public Reaction

Sub Lt Aastha Poonia's achievement of being the first woman to join the fighter stream of naval aviation has been met with widespread enthusiasm. Her accomplishment has resonated on social media, with the Navy's announcement going viral and garnering praise as a progressive step for India's armed forces.

A Symbol of ‘Nari Shakti’ and Naval Modernization

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia's entry into the fighter stream is not just a personal achievement but aligns with national initiatives. Her success embodies the spirit of Nari Shakti, highlighting women's growing role in India's defense forces and supporting the notion that women can serve equally on the front lines.

This milestone also aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, reflecting India's effort to leverage its entire human resource potential and build a self-reliant defense structure. Empowering women in combat roles is crucial for developing a robust and diverse armed forces ecosystem.

Her induction also complements the goals of Maritime India Vision 2030, which seeks to position India as a global maritime leader. As the Navy modernizes, integrating women into core operational roles enhances combat readiness and institutional credibility. Aastha Poonia's success may inspire broader reforms, encouraging more women to take on combat roles in the Navy.

What Lies Ahead?

Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia will now engage in a year-long advanced fighter training course, honing her skills for operational deployment. Upon certification, she is expected to join a MiG-29K squadron, operating from assets like the INS Vikrant. Her pioneering achievement is likely to inspire more women to pursue combat aviation, contributing to greater female representation in the Navy's fighting forces.

Conclusion

Sub Lt Aastha Poonia's groundbreaking role as the first female fighter pilot in the Indian Navy is a source of national pride. Her transition from a BTech graduate to a combat aviator symbolizes significant transformation in India's military landscape. As she embraces her role and prepares to fly the MiG-29K, she sends a powerful message: the sky is no longer a limit for Indian women in uniform.