President Droupadi Murmu made history once again on Wednesday as she took a sortie in the Indian Air Force’s Rafale fighter jet at Ambala Air Force Station — one of India’s most strategic airbases. With this, Murmu became the first Indian President to fly in both the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and the Rafale, showcasing India’s growing air power and the fearless spirit of its supreme commander.
A Proud Moment for the Nation
President Murmu’s sortie in the twin-seater Rafale was conducted under the supervision of Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who personally welcomed her at the base. The President was given a ceremonial guard of honour by the Indian Air Force before the flight, reflecting the pride and respect associated with the occasion.
As the aircraft took off, the moment became symbolic — representing India’s technological prowess, women’s empowerment, and the indomitable strength of the nation’s armed forces.
The President’s calm demeanour and enthusiasm during the sortie left everyone inspired. The video of her Rafale flight has gone viral on social media, drawing admiration and patriotic messages from citizens across the country.
From Sukhoi to Rafale: A Journey of Symbolic Courage
This is not the first time President Murmu has taken to the skies. In April 2023, she made headlines when she flew in a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam. Following that sortie, she praised the discipline, skill, and dedication of IAF pilots — a sentiment she echoed again after today’s Rafale flight.
By flying in the Rafale — India’s most advanced multirole fighter jet, the President has once again demonstrated her deep respect and confidence in the armed forces while inspiring millions of Indians, especially women, to dream beyond limits.
Rafale: India’s Cutting-Edge Warrior
The Rafale, built by Dassault Aviation, is among the most powerful combat aircraft in the world. Known for its speed, agility, and precision strike capability, the jet plays a pivotal role in India’s defense readiness. The Ambala Air Force Station, where the sortie took place, houses one of the IAF’s premier Rafale squadrons, “Golden Arrows.”
A Moment Etched in History
President Droupadi Murmu’s historic sortie is not merely a ceremonial act — it’s a symbol of India’s evolving defense strength, gender inclusivity in leadership, and unwavering commitment to national security. Her journey from Sukhoi to Rafale mirrors the journey of a confident, modern India soaring towards new horizons.
