Following the footsteps of her father, Brig Kaushal Sreedharan, Capt Rheeya K. Sreedharan has earned the coveted Aviation Wings at the valedictory ceremony at Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik. The Aviation Wings are awarded to officers in the Indian Army Aviation Corps (AAC), the supporting arm of the Army responsible for providing areal assistance.
CATS is the premier flying training institution of the Indian Army which functions under the aegis of Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla. The officers are awarded the coveted 'Aviation Wings' to become combat helicopter pilots after having successfully completed the Combat Aviators Course.
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"After 11 months of rigorous training, she becomes the first second-generation woman officer to claim a legacy in the Army Aviation Corps and achieve this prestigious milestone," a tweet from the Southern Command of the Indian Army read.
The youngest Corps of the Indian Army, the Army Aviation Corps serves to boost operational capabilities of the Indian Army through air mobility, surveillance, and support during combat operations. According to defence ministery, "Army Aviation is undeniably a formidable force multiplier, a key combat enabler and a vital fighting arm of the Indian Army."
Capt Rheeya K Sreedharan's achievement is a testament to the growing presence of women in the Indian armed forces excelling in various roles.