Misa Matsushima became Japan's first female fighter pilot in a historical ceremony this week which signified the country's push for gender equality, CNN reported.
For the past four years, the 26-year-old worked hard to defy the odds and complete her training at the Japan Air Self Defense Force.
After graduating from the National Defense academy in 2014, she joined the force, becoming part of the 6 percent of servicewomen among all Japanese troops.
Last year Japan's defense ministry announced various initiatives aimed at increasing the number of women in the male-dominated defense forces, The Japan Times noted.
The campaign was spearheaded by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who said the number of servicewomen among the troops was "far from enough."
A year later, Matsushima was officially recognized as Japan's first fighter pilot after completing her training this week, the Japan Air Self Defense Force announced.
The air force initially opened its doors to women in 1993, but the positions for pilots of fighter jets and reconnaissance aircrafts were limited to men until 2015, NDTV noted.
Meanwhile, a young Matsushima was watching the movie "Top Gun" and developing dreams of one day becoming a fighter pilot.
"Ever since I saw the movie 'Top Gun' when I was in primary school, I have always admired fighter jet pilots," she said, according to CNN.
Now she hopes to inspire others to become pilots.
"As the first female (fighter) pilot, I will open the way," Matsushima said. "I would like work hard to meet people's expectations and show my gratitude to people who have been supporting me. I want to become a full-fledged pilot, no different from men, as soon as possible."
The Japan Air Self Defense Force noted on Twitter that it was open to all women hoping to follow in Matsushima's footsteps.
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