Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth becomes first woman to complete IAF Fighter Combat Leader course

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth has successfully completed the Fighter Combat Leader course at the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment in Gwalior. This 20-week program is highly selective, with only a small fraction of fighter pilots chosen to participate. By finishing the course, Kanth has become the first woman in the Indian Air Force to earn the designation of a Top Gun pilot, qualifying her to lead complex aerial combat missions.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for gender inclusion within India's defense forces. Kanth was previously among the first three women commissioned as fighter pilots in 2016 and was the first woman fighter pilot to participate in the Republic Day parade in 2021. The completion of this advanced training signifies her progression from flying frontline fighter jets to assuming leadership roles in tactical combat operations.