Senior Scientist (Retired from top project roles) Public advocate for science education and women in STEM Former Project Director for major missile systems at DRDO
Tessy Thomas is a renowned Indian missile scientist who led development of long-range strategic missiles and is popularly known as the “Missile Woman of India.”
62 years
1963-08-14
Bachelor of Engineering (Aeronautical / Mechanical / relevant major) Postgraduate specialization in Aerospace / Missile Technology
College of Engineering, Kerala (Government Engineering College) Further studies and specialization in aerospace/missile systems engineering
Full Name: Tessy Thomas
Nickname: Missile Woman of India Dr. Tessy Thomas
Country/State: India
Date of Birth: 1963-08-14
Languages Known: English Malayalam Hindi
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Food Habit: Vegetarian
Religion: Christian
Hobbies: Space and missile science outreach Motivational talks for youth and women in STEM Reading and mentoring young scientists
School: Schools in Idukki district, Kerala
College: College of Engineering, Kerala (Government Engineering College) Further studies and specialization in aerospace/missile systems engineering
Degrees Obtained: Bachelor of Engineering (Aeronautical / Mechanical / relevant major) Postgraduate specialization in Aerospace / Missile Technology
Height: 165 cm
Weight: 70 kg
Parents: Not Public
Siblings: Not Public
Marital Status: married
Wife: Dr. Thomas Maju (Scientist)
Children: 2
Current Position: Senior Scientist (Retired from top project roles) Public advocate for science education and women in STEM Former Project Director for major missile systems at DRDO
Skills:
Net Worth: Not Public
Awards & Achievements: First woman Project Director for a missile project in India Played key role in development of Agni-IV and Agni-V strategic missiles Recognised nationally as “Missile Woman of India” Honoured with multiple defence and civilian recognitions for contribution to national security and science Role model for women scientists across India
Born in Kerala in 1963, Tessy Thomas grew up in a modest family but excelled in academics and engineering studies. She pursued a degree in engineering and later specialised in missile and aerospace systems.
She joined DRDO and gradually rose through ranks, demonstrating technical expertise, leadership and dedication. In a traditionally male-dominated field, she became India’s first woman Project Director for a major missile programme, overseeing design, testing, and deployment phases.
Under her guidance, missiles with long-range strategic capabilities were developed, enhancing India’s defence readiness. Her professionalism, perseverance and vision made her a national name in defence science.
Beyond her official duties, she actively advocates for gender equality in science and encourages young women to pursue careers in engineering, defence research, and space science.
Frequently invited as a keynote speaker in national defence-science conferences highlighting women’s contributions.
Engaged in mentoring programmes encouraging young women engineers, especially in defence and aerospace sectors.
Recognised by educational institutions as a role model in STEM for girls across India.
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