India’s First Woman Rafale Pilot Joins Hawk Training Fleet, Silences Pakistan’s Fake Propaganda

In a significant career milestone, Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh has joined the Indian Air Force’s elite Hawk training fleet as an instructor, further strengthening India’s fighter training ecosystem. The development comes shortly after Pakistan circulated false claims during Operation Sindoor, alleging that the officer had been captured — misinformation that the IAF swiftly debunked as baseless propaganda.

TRAINING TRANSITION: FROM RAFALE OPERATIONS TO HAWK INSTRUCTION

Commissioned in 2017, the Varanasi-born officer belongs to the Indian Air Force’s second batch of women fighter pilots. Before her induction into the Rafale squadron in Ambala, she flew the MiG-21 Bison, gaining frontline experience in high-intensity missions and major operational exercises. Her exceptional performance earned her national recognition, including her recent Rafale sortie with President Droupadi Murmu.

DISMANTLING PAKISTAN’S FAKE NEWS CAMPAIGN

Responding to Pakistan’s manufactured stories, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari dismissed the allegations as nothing more than “Manohar Kahaaniyaan,” reinforcing that such propaganda attempts will not affect the IAF’s morale or focus. Squadron Leader Singh further solidified her credibility by completing the prestigious Flying Instructors School course at Tambaram — regarded as one of the most demanding military aviation programs in India.

SHAPING INDIA’S NEXT GENERATION OF FIGHTER PILOTS

In her new role, Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh will mentor budding fighter pilots, sharing her experience across legacy platforms and next-generation combat aircraft. IAF officials stated that her operational expertise and leadership will play a crucial part in preparing India’s next generation of frontline aviators.