President Droupadi Murmu Takes Historic Sortie in Rafale Jet at Ambala

Ambala: Marking another milestone in the history of the Indian Armed Forces, President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday took a sortie in a Rafale fighter aircraft at the Air Force Station, Ambala, becoming the first President of India to fly in two fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The President had earlier taken a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI in 2023.

Ambala Air Force Station holds a special place in the IAF’s history as it was the first base to receive the Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation’s facility in France.

The President, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, flew for about 30 minutes, covering approximately 200 kilometers before safely returning to the airbase. The aircraft was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, Commanding Officer of the 17 Squadron, known as the “Golden Arrows.” The sortie took place at an altitude of around 15,000 feet above sea level and at a speed of nearly 700 km per hour.

Following the flight, President Murmu penned her impressions in the visitors’ book, describing the experience as “unforgettable.” She wrote, “I am delighted to visit Air Force Station Ambala for my maiden flight on Rafale aircraft of the Indian Air Force. The sortie on Rafale is an unforgettable experience for me. This first flight on the potent Rafale aircraft has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities. I congratulate the Indian Air Force and the entire team of Air Force Station, Ambala for organising this sortie successfully.”