Two Women Officers To Operate Helicopters For Indian Navy

Two women have created history by becoming the first to be deployed on Indian Navy warships as part of the ship's crew. They have been selected to join as 'Observers' (Airborne Tacticians) in the Indian Navy's helicopter stream, paving the way for women in frontline warships.

Sub Lieutenant (SLt) Kumudini Tyagi and SLt Riti Singh would join in as the first set of women airborne tacticians in India to operate the deck of warships.

Women were earlier restricted to only winged aircrafts that took off and landed ashore.

The two women are a part of a group of 17 officers of the Navy, including four women officers and three officers of the Indian Coast Guard, the Defence said in a statement.

They were awarded 'Wings' on graduating as 'Observers' at a ceremony held on Monday at INS Garuda.

Rear Admiral Antony George, Chief Staff Officer (Training) presented the awards and coveted wings to the officers.

Mr George said it was a landmark occasion where women for the first time ever are going to be trained in helicopter operations.

Tyagi and Singh will be serving on-board Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare aircraft of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.