President Droupadi Murmu made history today by flying in the Indian Air Force’s powerful Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station. The 30-minute flight covered around 200 km and gave her an “unforgettable” experience.
Wearing a G-suit and sunglasses, President Murmu, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, smiled and gave a thumbs-up before take-off. Group Captain Amit Gehani, Commanding Officer of the 17 Squadron, piloted the French-made jet. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh also flew a sortie in another aircraft from the same base.
After landing, President Murmu wrote in the visitor’s book that the flight filled her with pride in India’s defence strength. Later, she posted on X, saying the flight gave her a new sense of confidence in the nation’s military power. She also admired the ancient land of Haryana and the cultural symbol of Brahmsarovar from the sky.
This was President Murmu’s second fighter jet experience. In 2023, she flew in a Sukhoi-30MKI. Rafale jets, made by Dassault Aviation, were inducted into the IAF’s “Golden Arrows” squadron in 2020 and have since played a key role in strengthening India’s air defence.
