Ambala (Haryana): In a historic moment for India’s defence and leadership, President Droupadi Murmu became the first Indian President to take a sortie in a Rafale fighter aircraft, showcasing the strength, precision, and technological prowess of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
At 67 years old, President Murmu took off from the Ambala Air Force Station—the first base to host Rafale jets imported from France’s Dassault Aviation facility. The sortie, lasting about 30 minutes and covering nearly 200 kilometers, was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, Commanding Officer of the IAF’s 17 Squadron.
A Symbolic Flight of Strength and Leadership
As the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, President Murmu’s flight was not just ceremonial—it was a symbolic expression of solidarity with India’s defenders in uniform.
Flying at an altitude of 15,000 feet and a speed of 700 km/h, the President experienced first-hand the agility and power of the Rafale, which forms a key part of India’s modern air defence capabilities.
Earlier, in 2023, President Murmu had also taken a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI over the Brahmaputra, becoming the first Indian President to fly in two different fighter aircraft of the IAF.
President Murmu’s Message: Pride in India’s Defence Capabilities
Following the flight, President Murmu expressed her sentiments in the visitor’s book, writing:
“I am delighted to visit Air Force Station Ambala for my maiden flight on the Rafale aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The sortie on Rafale is an unforgettable experience for me. This first flight on the potent Rafale aircraft has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities. I congratulate the Indian Air Force and the entire team of Air Force Station, Ambala for organising this sortie successfully.”
The President was also briefed on the operational capabilities of the Rafale aircraft and the broader strategic readiness of the IAF.
From Odisha to the Rafale Cockpit: A Story of Inspiration
President Murmu’s journey—from a small tribal village in Odisha to the cockpit of India’s most advanced fighter jet—mirrors the story of a rising, resilient India. Her calm strength, humility, and courage continue to inspire millions across the nation.
Her historic sortie in the Rafale symbolizes not just India’s military modernization, but also the nation’s inclusive progress, where leadership represents both tradition and transformation.
Rafale: India’s Cutting-Edge Air Power
The Rafale, manufactured by Dassault Aviation (France), is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft known for its advanced avionics, precision weaponry, and agility. The aircraft significantly enhances India’s air combat capabilities, capable of carrying out long-range missions under all weather conditions.
India inducted the Rafale into service in 2020, marking a new chapter in its air defence history. The Ambala Air Force Station serves as one of its key operational bases.
Historic Milestone for the Indian Air Force
President Murmu’s sortie highlights the Indian Air Force’s evolving strength and professionalism. Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and senior IAF officials were present during the event, underscoring its significance.
The occasion also served to reaffirm the Yogi government’s continued support for defence infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh and northern India, a region central to India’s strategic aviation network.
