President Murmu's Historic Two-Day Visit to Rajasthan for Op 'Vayu Shakti'
Synopsis
Prepare for an impactful visit as President Droupadi Murmu attends the Indian Air Force's largest military exercise, 'Vayu Shakti-2026,' in Jaisalmer. Join her on this historic day as she pilots a Light Combat Helicopter and interacts with the nation's brave soldiers.
Key Takeaways
President Droupadi Murmu will attend 'Vayu Shakti-2026'.
First-time co-pilot experience in a combat helicopter.
Significant display of Air Force capabilities.
Major security measures in place at the exercise site.
Historical context of President’s engagement with military aircraft.
Jaipur, Feb 26 (NationPress) The Indian Air Force is set to conduct its most significant military drill, "Vayu Shakti-2026", this Friday at the Pokhran Field Firing Range located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, close to the border with Pakistan.
President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will be an esteemed attendee at this exercise.
As per the itinerary, the President will pilot a Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand on Friday, providing an aerial reconnaissance of the region. This marks a historic occasion as it will be her first experience co-piloting a combat helicopter in the border airspace of Jaisalmer. After the exercise, she will engage with Air Force personnel to uplift their spirits.
Later in the evening, the President will arrive at the Pokhran Range for the commencement of the exercise, which will also be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
Throughout the exercise, the Air Force will demonstrate its formidable capabilities through aerial fire and precision strikes.
In addition to the Prachand helicopters, aircraft such as Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Apache will also exhibit their prowess at 'Vayu Shakti-2026'. This visit by President Murmu holds significant strategic importance. Comprehensive security measures have been established in Jaisalmer, with the area from Chandan to Pokhran designated as a 'no-fly zone'.
President Murmu has a longstanding connection with the Indian Air Force's aircraft.
As the supreme commander, she has personally flown several frontline fighter jets, raising the morale of the nation’s armed forces.
She has previously piloted a Sukhoi and a Rafale. Notably, on October 29, 2025, she made history by flying in a Rafale jet from the 'Golden Arrows' squadron stationed in Ambala, becoming the first President to operate two distinct types of fighter jets (Sukhoi and Rafale).
During this flight, she experienced the Rafale's capabilities at speeds nearing 700 km/h and at altitudes of around 15,000 feet.
On April 8, 2023, she flew for about 30 minutes in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from the Tezpur base in Assam, assessing the aircraft's firepower and the Air Force's readiness while soaring above the majestic Himalayan peaks and the Brahmaputra Valley.
She is the second female President in India to pilot a Sukhoi, following Pratibha Patil.
Point of View
' it highlights the importance of military preparedness and the role of leadership in fostering morale among armed forces. This event not only showcases India's air power but also the commitment of its leadership to national security.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Vayu Shakti-2026'?
'Vayu Shakti-2026' is the Indian Air Force's largest military exercise aimed at showcasing its capabilities through aerial fire and precision strikes.
Where is the exercise taking place?
The exercise is being conducted at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, near the Pakistan border.
Who will be present at the exercise?
President Droupadi Murmu, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma will be present at the event.
What aircraft will be showcased during the exercise?
Aircraft including the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and Apache will be part of the exercise.
What is the significance of President Murmu's visit?
President Murmu's visit underscores the strategic importance of military readiness and boosts the morale of the armed forces.
