India's 1st female Rafale pilot becomes QFI
Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh just became the Indian Air Force's first female fighter pilot to earn the Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI) badge.
Awarded this week at Tambaram, the honor means she can now train future combat pilots—a huge step in her career and for women in military aviation.
From breaking barriers to setting standards, Singh's journey
Singh has already made waves as one of India's first female Rafale pilots, flying real missions with the Golden Arrows Squadron.
She's faced rumors—like being captured by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor—which her ongoing service clearly disproves.
Her new instructor badge shows off her skill and leadership, and highlights how women are taking on bigger roles in the IAF since 2015, from piloting advanced jets to taking on key operational roles.
The ceremony, with officers from India and partner countries, marked a proud moment for everyone watching women break new ground in defense.