Indian Navy Commissions Second Female Helicopter Pilot
In a proud moment for the Indian Navy, 18 officers successfully completed the demanding 104th Helicopter Conversion Course at INS Rajali, with Sub Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey emerging as only the second woman to qualify as a naval helicopter pilot. The Passing Out Parade on June 9 showcased the Navy's progressive strides in both gender inclusion and operational preparedness.
Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, chief of the Eastern Naval Command and a decorated naval veteran with advanced qualifications in Defence Studies, awarded the coveted 'Golden Wings' to the graduates. He stated how their 22-week intensive training at the Helicopter Training School makes them all set for mission-critical operations like counter-piracy missions and coastal surveillance or possibly disaster relief missions.
This achievement gains special significance as it comes three years after the Navy's landmark decision to allow women in combat aviation roles. The ceremony also coincided with reports showing a 15% surge in naval air operations since 2020, demonstrating India's growing maritime prowess in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific waters.
The graduation at INS Rajali - counted among Asia's finest naval air stations - represents more than just the completion of training. It underscores the Navy's threefold commitment: to cutting-edge operational readiness, continuous modernization, and creating equal opportunities in its fighting force - values that will shape the future of India's maritime security.
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