Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia Becomes Indian Navy’s First Female Fighter Pilot
Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has made history by becoming the first female fighter pilot in the Indian Navy. She has officially been inducted into the Navy's fighter stream and was awarded the prestigious 'Wings of Gold' badge, signifying her qualification as a naval fighter pilot.
The award ceremony took place at INS Dega in Visakhapatnam and was led by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air). The event marked the successful completion of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course.
Alongside Aastha Poonia, Lieutenant Atul Kumar Dhull also received the 'Wings of Gold' honor. This significant moment opens doors for more women officers to enter combat roles in the Indian armed forces.
On the same day, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved 10 major defence procurement plans worth approximately ₹1.05 lakh crore, further emphasizing India’s strategic commitment to modernizing its military capabilities.