She Commands the Skies—Meet the Woman Redefining India's Air Force

On May 7, 2025, as the nation tuned into the briefing on Operation Sindoor, India’s precision strikes against terror infrastructure across the border, one voice stood out with clarity and composure. Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a decorated helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force, addressed the nation, exemplifying both professional excellence and a quiet revolution in gender roles within the armed forces.
Vyomika’s story begins in a civilian household, far removed from the regimental rhythms of military life. As the first in her family to don the uniform, Singh carved her path through grit and determination. Her academic pursuits led her to an engineering degree, during which she actively engaged with the National Cadet Corps (NCC). It was in those formative years that her interest in military service took flight.

Commissioned into the Indian Air Force on December 18, 2019, Vyomika earned her place in the flying branch as a helicopter pilot, a role that demands precision, endurance and unwavering courage.
Over the past six years, Wing Commander Vyomika has amassed over 2,500 flight hours, navigating treacherous terrains and extreme weather conditions. Her operational postings have included high-altitude bases in Jammu & Kashmir and India’s Northeastern frontier, where she piloted Chetak and Cheetah helicopters in remote, inaccessible regions.

In November 2020, Vyomika led a daring rescue mission in Arunachal Pradesh, braving adverse weather to evacuate stranded civilians. A year later, she participated in a tri services all women mountaineering expedition to Mt. Manirang (21,650 ft), a feat that earned commendation from the Chief of Air Staff for resilience and teamwork.

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh’s public visibility reached its zenith during the Operation Sindoor briefing. Flanked by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, Singh meticulously detailed the Indian Air Force’s role: precision strikes employing Rafale fighter jets, cruise missiles, and laser-guided munitions targeting terror launchpads. Her crisp articulation underscored not only operational competence but strategic restraint, a deliberate avoidance of Pakistani military targets to maintain escalation control.


"India remains fully prepared to counter any threat. Our objective was precise, proportional and based on credible intelligence," Singh stated firmly.Vyomika's career trajectory reflects a seamless blend of operational excellence and leadership. Her accolades include the IAF Pilot’s Flying Badge, the Special Service Medal, High Altitude Service Medal, 9-Year Long Service Medal, and the 75th Independence Anniversary Medal.


Yet beyond medals, it is her pioneering journey that resonates. As the sole female officer co-leading the high-profile Operation Sindoor briefing, Singh epitomises the growing footprint of women in India’s defence forces. Her composure under pressure and operational achievements inspire young aspirants, particularly women, across NCC units and educational institutions.

"Gender is no barrier when it comes to defending the nation," Singh has often reiterated a sentiment her career embodies.
A Future in FlightToday, as Wing Commander Vyomika Singh continues to chart new horizons, she stands as a testament to meritocracy, resilience and quiet resolve. In the Indian Air Force’s expanding sky, she soars not just as a pilot, but as a beacon for a new generation of officers.