In a landmark achievement for gender inclusivity within the Indian armed forces, Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has been inducted into the fighter stream of the Indian Navy, marking her as the first woman fighter pilot in naval aviation. This milestone follows her successful completion of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam.

Sub Lt Poonia received the prestigious 'Wings of Gold' from Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), during a ceremony on July 3, 2025. This achievement signifies a major step forward in the Indian Navy's commitment to promoting gender equality and providing opportunities for women in combat roles. The Navy has expressed that Sub Lt Poonia's inclusion in the fighter stream highlights their dedication to "Nari Shakti" (women power) and fostering a culture of equality within the force.

Following the graduation ceremony, Sub Lt Poonia will undergo further training to qualify as a fighter pilot. She may potentially fly MiG-29K fighter jets or the naval version of the Rafale, operating from India's aircraft carriers such as INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.

Prior to this, the Indian Navy had already inducted women officers as pilots and naval air operations officers in Maritime Reconnaissance (MR) aircraft and helicopters. Sub Lt Poonia's entry into the fighter stream represents a significant expansion of the roles available to women in the Navy.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) first inducted women into its fighter stream in 2016 and currently has approximately 20 women fighter pilots who fly aircraft like the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29s, and MiG-21 Bison. The Indian Army Aviation Corps began allowing women pilots in 2021.

The Indian Navy has seen a 15 percent increase in the recruitment of female officers since 2020. The inclusion of women in strategic positions is believed to foster innovation, adaptability, and greater mission effectiveness by bringing diverse perspectives to operational planning and execution. The Navy sees this moment as the beginning of a new chapter in naval aviation.