Mangaluru: Flight Lieutenant Prajwal R Shetty, a native of Dakshina Kannada in Karnataka, has achieved a major milestone by becoming a fully operational Rafale fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF). His journey from securing All India Rank 42 in the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examination to flying one of India’s most advanced fighter aircraft highlights his dedication, discipline and academic excellence.
Who is Prajwal R Shetty: Journey From NDA To Rafale Fighter Pilot
Prajwal’s journey towards becoming a fighter pilot began after completing his Pre-University Course (PUC). He secured the 42nd rank in the all-India UPSC examination for admission to the National Defence Academy in Pune.
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He then completed three years of military training at the NDA. During this period, he also received initial flying training on the Super Dimona aircraft, which helped him develop his aviation skills.
Flying Training At Air Force Academy Hyderabad
After completing his NDA training, Prajwal joined the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad for one year of specialised flying training.
During this period, he trained on Pilatus and Kiran aircraft. He also secured first place in aviation subjects and earned a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degree. His strong academic performance and flying skills helped him progress through the demanding stages of military aviation training.
Commissioned Into Indian Air Force In December 2022
In December 2022, Prajwal R Shetty was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force.
Following his commissioning, he underwent approximately one year of basic fighter training on the Hawk aircraft at Kalaikunda in West Bengal. He continued his excellent academic performance during this specialised training and secured first place in aviation subjects once again.
Prajwal R Shetty Becomes An Operational Rafale Fighter Pilot
After successfully completing the required stages of fighter pilot training, Prajwal earned the opportunity to fly the Rafale multirole fighter aircraft.
He was posted to the Indian Air Force’s No. 17 Squadron, popularly known as the Golden Arrows, based at Ambala in Haryana.
He successfully completed his Rafale conversion training and has now become a fully operational Rafale fighter pilot. The achievement marks an important step in his career as an Indian Air Force officer.
Participates In Wings Over Ganges Air Show In Varanasi
One of the major highlights of Prajwal’s recent career was his participation in the ‘Wings Over Ganges’ aerial display held in Varanasi on October 25, 2026. The event was organised as part of the Indian Air Force’s 94th anniversary celebrations at Namo Ghat.
Prajwal flew as part of the ‘Neelkanth’ formation, which consisted of three Rafale fighter aircraft. He occupied the central lead position in the formation. The aerial display showcased the flying skills, coordination and professional capabilities of Indian Air Force pilots.
A Proud Moment For Dakshina Kannada
Flight Lieutenant Prajwal R Shetty is the son of Ramesh Shetty of Harekala Ulidottu and Seetha R Shetty of Kodethur Moodudevasya in Dakshina Kannada. His achievement has brought pride to his family and hometown.
His journey from securing an impressive rank in the NDA entrance examination to becoming an operational Rafale fighter pilot demonstrates the importance of hard work, discipline and continuous learning.
His success can also inspire young students and defence aspirants who dream of joining the Indian Armed Forces and building a career in military aviation.
FAQs
Flight Lieutenant Prajwal R Shetty is associated with the Indian Air Force’s No. 17 Squadron, popularly known as the Golden Arrows, based at Ambala, Haryana.
Prajwal R Shetty is an Indian Air Force Flight Lieutenant from Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. He has become a fully operational pilot of the Rafale fighter aircraft.
Neelkanth was a formation of three Rafale fighter aircraft that participated in the Wings Over Ganges aerial display in Varanasi on October 25, 2026. Flight Lieutenant Prajwal R Shetty occupied the central lead position.
