Did President Murmu Take a Thrilling Flight in a Rafale Fighter Jet?
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Synopsis
On October 29, President Droupadi Murmu soared through the skies in a Rafale fighter jet, marking her second sortie in an IAF aircraft. This flight not only symbolizes her confidence in the Indian Air Force but also highlights the crucial role these jets play in national security operations.
Key Takeaways
- President Murmu's second sortie in a Rafale jet signals confidence in IAF capabilities.
- Rafale jets are integral to Operation Sindoor.
- Historical flight, marking leadership engagement with military operations.
- Induction of Rafale jets in 2020 marked a significant upgrade for the IAF.
- Strengthening of national defense through such symbolic gestures.
Ambala, Oct 29 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu embarked on a thrilling sortie aboard a Rafale fighter jet on Wednesday, which played a pivotal role in 'Operation Sindoor'—a mission initiated by India in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack—at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana. This marks her second flight in an Indian Air Force (IAF) combat aircraft.
Among the dignitaries present at the Air Force Station was Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh. Prior to the sortie, President Murmu received a guard of honour at the air base.
As she ascended into the skies, the President waved with enthusiasm, dressed in an Indian Air Force pilot's uniform and clutching a helmet. Her flight represents a significant display of confidence in the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness and its advancing air power capabilities.
Produced by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation and officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020 in Ambala, Rafale jets have been instrumental in 'Operation Sindoor'.
On April 8, 2023, President Murmu, the supreme commander of the Indian armed forces, made history as the third President and the second female head of state to undertake a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter aircraft at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam.
Former Presidents APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil also took flights in Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft at the Air Force Station in Lohegaon, near Pune, on June 8, 2006, and November 25, 2009, respectively.
Manufactured by French aerospace giant Dassault Aviation, Rafale fighter jets were formally integrated into the Indian Air Force in September 2020 at the Ambala Air Force Station.
The first five Rafale aircraft, which arrived from France on July 27, 2020, were inducted into the 17 Squadron, known as the 'Golden Arrows'. The Rafale was the first foreign fighter jet to be inducted into the Indian Air Force in over two decades, following the Russian Sukhoi-30 fighters, the first of which entered service in June 1997.
Point of View
President Murmu's flight in the Rafale fighter jet exemplifies the strengthening ties between leadership and military readiness. This event is not just ceremonial; it serves as a testament to India's commitment to fostering a robust defense mechanism.
NationPress
25/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of President Murmu's Rafale flight?
President Murmu's sortie was aimed at demonstrating confidence in the Indian Air Force's operational readiness and showcasing India's advanced military capabilities.
When was the Rafale formally inducted into the Indian Air Force?
The Rafale was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020.
Who accompanied President Murmu during the flight?
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh was present at the Air Force Station during President Murmu's sortie.
What historical significance does this flight hold?
This flight marks President Murmu as the third President and the second female head of state to undertake a sortie in an IAF fighter aircraft.
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
Operation Sindoor was launched by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, highlighting the operational capabilities of the Rafale jets.
