Defence Ministry Nod For Women Fighter Pilots in Indian Air Force

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Oct 24, 2015:  In a historic leap, Ministry of Defence today approved induction of women fighter pilots in Indian Air Force, said spokesperson Sitanshu Kar.

 

The first women pilots in the Fighter stream of IAF will be selected from the current batch at Air Force Academy, the ministry statement said.

During the the 83rd Air Force Day,  Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha had said: "We have women pilots flying transport aircraft and helicopters, we are now planning to induct them into the fighter stream to meet the aspirations of young women of India," said the air chief on the 83rd Air Force Day.

"I have no doubt that women will be able to overcome any physical limitations to become fighter pilots," he had said.

There are around 1,500 women in the Air Force, including 94 pilots and 14 navigators.

In the past, the Air Force had refused to allow women in fighter squadrons because of fears of torture or rape if they were shot down in combat.

In 2010, women in the army and the Air Force were allowed full term service by the Delhi High Court, which commented that women officers "deserve better from the government."

Last month, women naval officers also scored this milestone, with the High Court saying it would "frown upon any endeavor to block progress of women."

Till five years ago, women military officers were entitled only to a limited service span.

Women officers are not allowed on board warships but the navy too, may have to review its rules.

Women serve in the administrative, medical and education branches. They are also taken on aircraft as "observers", to monitor censors.

Courtesy: NDTV