- Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces becomes the first Indian President to fly in both Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale fighters
- “The potent Rafale has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in India’s defence capabilities,” says President after 30-minute sortie at Ambala Air Base
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, OCT 29
In a stirring display of confidence, courage, and commitment to the nation’s defence forces, President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, took a historic sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at Air Force Station, Ambala, today — marking yet another milestone in India’s aviation and leadership history.
With this, President Murmu has become the first President of India to fly in two frontline fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force — the Sukhoi-30 MKI in 2023 and now the Rafale, India’s newest multi-role combat aircraft inducted from France.
The sortie, piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, Commanding Officer of the 17 Squadron, lasted about 30 minutes, covering nearly 200 km and reaching an altitude of 15,000 feet, at speeds of up to 700 km/h.
Following the flight, the President penned her thoughts in the Air Force Station visitor’s book:
“I am delighted to visit Air Force Station Ambala for my maiden flight on the Rafale aircraft. 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.”
Ambala, notably, was the first IAF base to receive Rafale aircraft from Dassault Aviation, France, symbolising India’s modern airpower. The President was also briefed on the operational capabilities and strategic significance of the Rafale fleet, which forms the cutting edge of India’s aerial defence.
President Murmu’s second fighter sortie is not just a ceremonial gesture but a tribute to the valour and professionalism of the Indian Air Force — reaffirming her deep personal engagement with the men and women who guard India’s skies.
