Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla was an Indian Air Force fighter pilot
In a remarkable journey that spans over two decades, Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilot, has left an indelible mark on the annals of Indian aviation. Born in Lucknow in 1985, Shubhanshu was deeply inspired by the Kargil War, which witnessed the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers. The war sparked a sense of patriotism within him, leading him to pursue a career in the armed forces.
At the tender age of 16, Shubhanshu applied to the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune, a premier institution that trains officers for the Indian Armed Forces. After clearing the highly competitive entrance exams, he was selected for the NDA’s 84th Course in 2001. Over the next four years, he underwent rigorous training, honing his skills in various aspects of military operations, leadership, and tactics.
Upon graduating from the NDA in 2005, Shubhanshu was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot. He began his flying career on the MiG-21 Bison, one of the IAF’s most iconic fighter jets. With over 2,000 hours of flying experience, Shubhanshu has had the distinction of flying some of the most advanced and sophisticated fighter jets in the world, including the Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Jaguar, and Hawk.
Shubhanshu’s exceptional flying skills and leadership qualities soon earned him recognition within the IAF. He was entrusted with various critical assignments, including leading the ‘Flying Daggers’ aerobatic team, which performs at various airshows and events. His exceptional flying skills and precision were showcased at the ‘Bharat Parv’ airshow in 2019, where he performed a thrilling aerobatic routine, leaving the audience in awe.
In 2019, Shubhanshu embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career by becoming one of the first Indian astronauts selected for the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Human Spaceflight Programme. The programme aims to send Indian astronauts to space by 2022, paving the way for India to join the elite club of space-faring nations.
Shubhanshu’s remarkable journey from a young cadet at the NDA to an IAF fighter pilot and now a potential astronaut is a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and passion for his work. His story is an inspiration to millions of young Indians who aspire to join the armed forces and make a difference in the country.
As Shubhanshu looks to the stars, his journey is a reminder that even the most seemingly impossible dreams can become a reality with hard work and determination. His selection as an astronaut is a matter of great pride for India, and we can’t wait to see him soar the skies of space, carrying the Indian flag with him.
Watch Shubhanshu’s incredible story in this video:
Source: https://youtu.be/GIBvTYcsAFc
