India’s First Woman Rafale Pilot
Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh has already carved her place in history as the first and only woman in India to fly the Rafale, one of the world’s most advanced multi-role fighter jets. Commissioned into the Indian Air Force in 2017, she began her combat flying career with the MiG-21 Bison, one of the oldest aircraft in service. Demonstrating exceptional skill and perseverance, she later transitioned to the state-of-the-art Rafale platform.
Shivangi is a part of the elite Golden Arrows Squadron, stationed at the Ambala Air Force Station. Her presence in this top combat unit marked a turning point for the inclusion of women in frontline combat roles within the IAF. Not only did she break gender barriers, but she also represented India in international military exercises, flying the Rafale in joint operations alongside global air forces.
Early Passion and Steadfast Determination
Born and raised in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Shivangi’s fascination with flying began early. A childhood visit to an air force museum sparked her dream of becoming a fighter pilot. Her academic excellence and unwavering determination led her to join the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Air Wing during her college years at Banaras Hindu University.
Her dedication paid off when she was selected to train at the Air Force Academy. There, she stood out as a disciplined, focused cadet with a natural flair for flying. Overcoming physical and mental challenges, she soared through the ranks to become one of India’s most skilled combat aviators.
A New Mission: Reaching for the Stars
Now, Shivangi Singh is setting her sights even higher—toward space. Inspired by India’s strides in space technology and exploration, she aspires to become an astronaut. Her ambition is not just personal; it’s symbolic of a growing movement where Indian women continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
With her combat flying experience, technical expertise, and mental resilience, she is a strong candidate for any future astronaut training program. Her dream is to contribute to India’s space missions, potentially becoming the nation’s first woman to make the leap from fighter cockpit to spacecraft.
Inspiring a Generation
Shivangi Singh’s story is one of courage, discipline, and limitless ambition. She represents a new era in Indian defense and aerospace—one where women are not just participants but pioneers. Her journey from the narrow alleys of Varanasi to the Rafale cockpit, and now possibly to space, sends a powerful message to young Indians: no dream is too big, and no sky is too high.