IAF helicopter pilot Vyomika Singh Commander Vyomika Singh played a key role in Operation Sindoor and became a symbol of courage, leadership and inspiration for women in national defense.
Vyomika Singh, Image Source: ANI
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, a helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force, is one of the main faces of India’s bold military response to the Pahalgam terrorist attack. On May 7, 2025, India undertook a pre-dawn strike called Operation Sindoor against nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation is a precise and limited mission designed to respond strongly to the killings of 26 Indian civilians without triggering a full-scale war. Vyomika played a key role in this operation, not only behind the scenes, but also co-host of the official media briefing, and Colonel Sophia Qureshi. This is the first time that a female official has co-led such a military announcement, marking a historic moment.
Vyomika Singh’s journey to the sky begins with her name Vyomika, which means “a person who lives in the sky”. She dreamed of becoming a pilot since she was in the sixth grade. Determined to realize her dream, she joined the National Craftsman Army (NCC), and later obtained an engineering degree, becoming the first person in her family to join the armed forces.
She was appointed as a helicopter pilot for the Indian Air Force and was awarded a permanent committee on 18 December 2019. With over 2500 hours of flight experience, she has flew Chetak and Cheetah helicopters in some of India’s most difficult terrain, including Jammu & Kashmir and the high blue areas of Kashmir and Eortheast.
Her career is full of courageous tasks. In November 2020, she led an adventurous rescue operation in Arunachal Pradesh, where her leadership and flight skills saved many lives in extreme weather. In 2021, she also joined an all-woman three-person service team that successfully climbed Mount Manilan (21,650 feet), a proud achievement recognized by the highest defense official.
Due to her courage and dedication, she was honored to be honored by the Chief of Air Staff and the Commander of the Aviation Officer. Her work in high altitude rescue operations and difficult expeditions has made her a role model for young women who hope to serve the country.
During Operation Sindoor, Vyomika also explained the importance of the simulation exercise, which is a practical task for preparing troops for real-time attacks. These exercises helped the Indian military respond quickly and accurately to Pahargam’s tragedy.
Today, wing commander Vyomika Singh symbolizes courage, strength and inspiration – not just the Indian armed forces, but every young girl who dares to dream of flying high.
