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Captain Hansja Sharma: India's First Female Rudra Pilot
28 Jan
Summary
- Captain Hansja Sharma is the first woman to fly the Rudra armed helicopter.
- She earned the Silver Cheetah Trophy for best combat aviator.
- Sharma overcame a temporary rejection to achieve her aviation goals.
Captain Hansja Sharma, at 27, has become the first woman in the Indian Army to be qualified to fly the Rudra armed helicopter. Born on March 9, 1998, in Jammu, she demonstrated exceptional skill by topping her training at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) in Nashik. Her outstanding performance earned her the Silver Cheetah Trophy for best combat aviator, a first for a woman.
Sharma's path was not without obstacles; she faced a temporary rejection before joining the Army without coaching. Her dedication is evident in her approach, which her mother described as 'Be brutal to yourself.' She also led the 251 Army Aviation Squadron at the 2026 Army Day Parade, showcasing the HELINA missile system.
Her achievements underscore the Indian Army's increasing inclusivity and the evolving roles for women officers. Sharma's success serves as a powerful benchmark, inspiring young women aspiring to serve on the frontlines and shattering traditional barriers in combat aviation. She also excelled in the 107th Air Traffic Management course at the Air Force Academy.
