Did President Murmu Just Make History with Rafale Pilot?
Synopsis
In a groundbreaking moment for Indian defense, President Droupadi Murmu took a 30-minute flight in a Rafale fighter jet, accompanied by Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh. This event underlines India's air superiority and counters false claims made by Pakistan during 'Operation Sindoor'.
Key Takeaways
President Droupadi Murmu becomes the first Indian President to fly in both Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale jets.
Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh is India’s first female Rafale pilot.
The sortie emphasizes India’s air superiority amidst external claims.
The event showcases the evolution of women in combat aviation in India.
The President reaffirmed her pride in India's defense capabilities.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) In a remarkable exhibition of India’s aerial strength, President Droupadi Murmu took to the skies for a 30-minute sortie aboard a Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station. She has now become the first Indian President to pilot both the Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rafale jets.
The occasion was further highlighted by her presence alongside Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh, India’s pioneering female Rafale pilot. This is particularly significant as Pakistan had falsely alleged that Singh was captured during 'Operation Sindoor', which involved precise airstrikes on terrorist targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir in May.
Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh, aged 29 and hailing from Varanasi, has been a part of the Golden Arrows Squadron since joining the Indian Air Force in 2017.
Prior to her stint with the Rafale, she operated the MiG-21 Bison, showcasing the evolution of women in combat aviation in India.
During 'Operation Sindoor', Pakistan's propaganda machine circulated misleading videos claiming that India had lost a Rafale and that Singh was captured near Sialkot. These claims were quickly debunked by the PIB Fact Check as “baseless and fabricated.”
Her presence next to the Rafale, alongside a pilot who epitomizes India's defense confidence, sent a strong message across the border — that India’s airspace is secure and its resolve unbreakable.
The President, as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, flew for around 30 minutes, covering approximately 200 kilometers before returning to the Air Force Station.
The sortie was commanded by Group Captain Amit Gehani, head of the 17 Squadron. The aircraft soared to an altitude of about 15,000 ft above sea level at speeds nearing 700 kilometers per hour.
Later, in the visitor’s book, the President penned a heartfelt note expressing, “I am thrilled to visit Air Force Station Ambala for my inaugural flight on the Rafale aircraft of the Indian Air Force. This sortie on the Rafale is an unforgettable experience for me.”
“This initial flight on the formidable Rafale has renewed my pride in our nation’s defense capabilities. I extend my congratulations to the Indian Air Force and the entire team at Air Force Station, Ambala for executing this sortie flawlessly,” she added.
Point of View
I emphasize that this event is a testament to India's growing expertise in defense capabilities and the empowerment of women in the armed forces. The presence of President Murmu and Squadron Leader Singh sends a strong message of unity and strength, reinforcing our national pride and commitment to security.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor refers to the Indian Air Force's precision airstrikes targeting terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir in May.
Who is Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh?
Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh is India's first female Rafale pilot, a member of the Golden Arrows Squadron, and has been with the IAF since 2017.
What did President Murmu say about the Rafale sortie?
President Murmu expressed her delight and pride in India's defense capabilities, calling the Rafale sortie an unforgettable experience.
What altitude and speed did the Rafale fly at during the sortie?
The Rafale jet flew at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet and reached speeds of about 700 kilometers per hour.
What was Pakistan's response during Operation Sindoor?
Pakistan circulated fake videos claiming that India lost a Rafale jet and that Squadron Leader Singh was captured, which were debunked by the PIB Fact Check.
