Nal Airbase (Bikaner): The impending retirement of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) MiG-21 combat aircraft next year has cast a spotlight on women pilots who have been flying this rugged Soviet-origin fighter plane throughout their careers. This aircraft, known for its checkered safety record, is being phased out, bringing attention to the experiences of women pilots who have been an integral part of its operational history.
The three women fighter pilots assigned to the No 3 Squadron “Cobras” are flying as actively as their male counterparts, performing duties day and night. Their presence symbolizes successful gender integration in the IAF’s crucial fighter stream, highlighting the inclusive nature of the workplace, as stated by Squadron Leader Mohana Singh, one of India’s first women fighter pilots. She emphasizes that there are no gender barriers, and they work alongside their male colleagues seamlessly to accomplish squadron tasks.
The IAF, currently the world’s fourth-largest air force, opened its fighter stream to women in 2016, marking a historic moment in India’s military history. Approximately 20 women fighter pilots are currently part of the IAF. Recently, on December 2, 153 Agniveervayu (women) were inducted into the non-officer cadre, representing a milestone in gender inclusivity within the force.
Squadron Leader Mohana Singh, with a seven-year career focused solely on the MiG-21 Bison, the latest variant of the MiG-21, emphasizes the equal nature of the workplace for women fighter pilots. Flight Lieutenant Pratibha Dahiya, who joined the squadron in February 2019, underlines the shared roles and professional growth opportunities for women and men alike.
Group Captain Chetan Sharma, the commanding officer of the squadron, notes that gender-related differences in performance or competence are absent. Both male and female fighter pilots in the squadron operate in the same formations and regularly undertake sorties in the twin-seat MiG-21 trainer aircraft. The women fighter pilots also lead formations, showcasing a cohesive team effort.
Wing Commander JS Sandhu emphasizes that the aircraft prioritizes flying skill over gender, stating, “What matters is flying skill. And every pilot in our squadron has plenty of it.”
As the IAF phases out the MiG-21, the squadron continues its operations, exploiting the full potential of these Soviet-era interceptors. The MiG-21, with its unique characteristics and six-decade service history in India, holds a special place in the hearts of the pilots. The farewell to this iconic fleet is marked by nostalgia, shared by both men and women in the squadron.
As the MiG-21 era nears its end, the squadron reflects on its 82-year history, featuring a variety of aircraft. The Cobras, since 1972, have exclusively flown MiG-21s, making the farewell bittersweet.
