Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh

Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh Deora was born into a proud Rajput family in Khiwandi village located in Sumerpur tehsil of Pali district in Rajasthan. He was the beloved son of Shri Jaswant Singh Deora and Smt Bhanwar Kanwar, who raised him with strong values of discipline, humility, and patriotism. From a young age, Flt Lt Rishi stood out as a bright, determined, and courageous child—traits that would come to define his life and career. Flt Lt Rishi began his early education in Dubai, and continued his studies from Grade 4 to 12 at Delhi Public School (DPS), in Jodhpur. At DPS, Flt Lt Rishi’s academic performance was nothing short of exceptional. He scored a perfect 10 CGPA in his 10th Board Exams and went on to secure an astounding 98% in his 12th Board Exams, earning him a coveted spot in the Top 10 Merit List of Jodhpur.

However, Flt Lt Rishi was not only a scholar; he was also a well-rounded individual, admired by teachers and peers for his discipline and unwavering sense of purpose. His brilliance opened multiple doors for him—he secured admission to the prestigious VIT University, Vellore, for engineering studies. But Flt Lt Rishi’s heart was set on a higher calling—to serve the nation. Determined to join the armed forces, he appeared for the National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examination and cleared it with flying colours. He successfully passed the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview in Mysore, a rigorous evaluation known for selecting only the most capable and committed candidates. His selection into the NDA marked the beginning of a transformative journey that would shape him into a soldier, a leader, and an air warrior.

At the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune, he underwent three years of intensive training—physically, mentally, and morally. The experience fortified his already strong character and prepared him to face the challenges of military aviation. His dedication and discipline at NDA reflected his deep passion for service, earning him the respect of instructors and fellow cadets alike. After graduating from the NDA, he was inducted into the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad, where he underwent one year of specialized flying training. His consistent excellence led to his commissioning as a Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force—a proud moment for his family and his village. But his journey didn’t stop there. He was selected for another year of advanced training at the Air Force Station Kalaikunda in West Bengal, where he trained on frontline combat aircraft. This phase refined his operational flying skills and prepared him for deployment to active squadrons. Upon completion of his training, he was posted to No. 5 Squadron stationed at Suratgarh Airbase in Rajasthan. 

Operational Air Mission: 09 Jul 2025

In 2025, Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh was serving with the prestigious No. 5 Squadron, also known as the “Tuskers.” This illustrious squadron has a long-standing legacy of gallantry and operational excellence. Originally formed on 2 November 1948 at Kanpur under the command of Squadron Leader JRS “Danny” Dantra, the squadron soon moved to Poona (now Pune), where it remained for eight years. Initially flying B-24 Liberators, it became the first Indian Air Force squadron to operate the B(I)58 Canberra bomber-interdictor on 1 September 1957 under Wing Commander WR Dani. The unit later transitioned out of the Canberra role in 1981 and was re-formed at Ambala under Wing Commander JS Sisodia. Since then, the Tuskers have flown Jaguar aircraft, taking on both strike and reconnaissance roles, proudly upholding the operational standards of the IAF. For young officers like Flight Lieutenant Singh, being a part of No. 5 Squadron based at Suratgarh Airbase in Rajasthan was not just an assignment—it was a badge of honour. He embodied the ethos of the squadron with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a steadfast commitment to duty.

On 9 July 2025, Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh was on an operational training mission as the co-pilot to Squadron Leader Lokendra Singh Sindhu, an experienced pilot of the same squadron. The mission, as part of a "Battle Inoculation Training Exercise," was launched from a forward air base, with the Jaguar aircraft (Serial No: JT-054) taking off at 1315 hours. The flight path took them over Bhanuda village in Rajasthan’s Churu district, a routine operation meant to hone precision and coordination between the two officers. Tragically, at approximately 1325 hours, disaster struck. The aircraft developed a sudden and severe technical malfunction mid-air, which triggered an onboard fire. The situation deteriorated rapidly as the aircraft passed over an agricultural field. Despite the short window of time and the life-threatening emergency, both pilots likely attempted to steer the aircraft away from populated areas—a final act of bravery aimed at preventing civilian casualties. Their actions in those crucial moments were a testament to their training, presence of mind, and unwavering commitment to the safety of others. Unfortunately, the critical nature of the malfunction left the pilots with little to no time to initiate ejection procedures. Both officers—Squadron Leader Lokendra Singh Sindhu and Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh—made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, laying down their lives while fulfilling their mission with courage and composure.

At just 25 years of age, Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh had already carved a name for himself as a highly skilled pilot, known for his calm demeanour, discipline, and deep sense of responsibility. He was admired by his peers and respected by his seniors for his commitment, maturity, and humility. His life and sacrifice serve as a poignant reminder of the silent courage and dedication of our young air warriors, who defend the nation’s skies with vigilance and valour. 

Flight Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh is survived by his father, Shri Jaswant Singh Deora, mother, Smt Bhanwar Kanwar, and younger brother Shri Yuvraj Singh.