President Droupadi Murmu Takes Historic Rafale Sortie at Ambala Airbase

In a remarkable milestone for India’s aviation history, President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday took a sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at the Indian Air Force Station in Ambala, Haryana. With this, she became the first President of India to fly in two different fighter aircrafts of the Indian Air Force.

A Historic Flight

The President, donning a G-suit and helmet, boarded the twin-seater Rafale aircraft alongside a senior IAF pilot. The sortie lasted for nearly 30 minutes, during which the aircraft flew various aerial maneuvers to showcase its capabilities.

The Rafale, India’s most advanced multi-role combat aircraft, is known for its precision, agility, and cutting-edge avionics. President Murmu’s sortie underscores the nation’s growing air power and her continued engagement with India’s armed forces.

Second Fighter Jet Sortie

This marks President Murmu’s second fighter jet experience, following her earlier sortie in a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI aircraft from Tezpur Air Force Station in April 2023. That historic flight had made her the third Indian President to undertake a fighter sortie, after former Presidents Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil.

By flying in both the Su-30 MKI and now the Rafale, President Murmu has set a new precedent, symbolizing the close connection between the nation’s highest office and its defense forces.

Tribute to the Armed Forces

Speaking after the flight, President Murmu expressed pride in the professionalism and courage of Indian Air Force personnel, commending their dedication to safeguarding the nation’s skies.

She also emphasized the importance of women’s increasing participation in defense and aviation sectors, noting that India’s skies now reflect true equality and empowerment.

A Moment of National Pride

The sortie at Ambala home to India’s first Rafale squadron, “Golden Arrows” stands as a proud moment for the nation. The President’s participation not only honors the valor of the IAF but also reinforces India’s commitment to technological excellence and defense preparedness.

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