National 14 August 2026
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth Becomes First Female Fighter Combat Leader in IAF
Why in the News?
Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth has created history by becoming the first female officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) to qualify as a Fighter Combat Leader (FCL). She achieved this landmark milestone after successfully graduating from the rigorous 20-week FCL course at the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
Key Features / Major Points:
The IAF's "Top Gun" Equivalent: Considered the IAF's premier operational combat training institute, the course is often compared to the US Navy's "Top Gun" program, with selection restricted to only the top 1% of fighter pilots.
Transition to Master Tactician: As an FCL, she is certified to design complex aerial combat strategies, lead multi-aircraft combat formations, and train upcoming fighter pilots in advanced tactics.
Aircraft Expertise: Having initially flown the MiG-21 Bison, Squadron Leader Kanth now flies the frontline twin-engine Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet.
Career Milestones:
June 2016: Commissioned among India's first three women fighter pilots (alongside Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh).
May 2019: First Indian woman fighter pilot cleared for daytime combat missions.
2020: Awarded the Nari Shakti Puraskar.
January 2021: First woman fighter pilot to participate in the Republic Day flypast.
August 2026: Graduated as IAF's first-ever female Fighter Combat Leader.
Static GK Facts:
Indian Air Force (IAF):
Established: October 8, 1932
Headquarters: New Delhi
Air Force Day: October 8
Motto: "Nabhah Sprusam Deeptam" (Touch the Sky with Glory)
TACDE (Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment):
Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Who has become the first female Fighter Combat Leader (FCL) in the Indian Air Force?
Answer: Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth
Where is the Tactics and Air Combat Development Establishment (TACDE) located?
Answer: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh