President Droupadi Murmu Takes Historic Rafale Ride at Ambala Air Base
President Droupadi Murmu takes historic Rafale ride at Ambala Air Force Station, showcasing India’s air power, national pride, and women’s leadership.
President Droupadi Murmu Takes Historic Rafale Ride
President Droupadi Murmu made history on Wednesday by taking a 30-minute sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana. The remarkable event showcased India’s advancing air defence strength and celebrated the growing presence of women in national leadership roles.
As the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, President Murmu was warmly welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour upon her arrival at the base.
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Ambala Air Force Station Witnesses a Historic Moment
President Droupadi Murmu boarded the twin-seater Rafale fighter jet around 11:27 a.m., dressed in a G-suit and complete flight gear. Before take-off, she greeted everyone with a wave from the cockpit, symbolizing a proud moment for the nation.
The sortie took place under the supervision of senior Indian Air Force officials, including Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, who accompanied the mission in another aircraft. After successfully completing the 30-minute flight, President Murmu was welcomed back with applause and warmth by IAF personnel, marking a memorable milestone for India’s defence forces.
Continuing the Legacy of Presidential Flights in Fighter Jets
This was President Droupadi Murmu’s second fighter jet sortie since taking office. Earlier, in April 2023, she became the third Indian President and the second woman head of state to fly in a Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft from the Tezpur Air Base in Assam.
Before her, former Presidents Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil had also taken similar sorties in 2006 and 2009 respectively. These symbolic flights reflect the President’s strong bond with the armed forces and highlight the nation’s commitment to showcasing its defence readiness and technological strength.
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Rafale Jets: A Game Changer in India’s Defence Strategy
The Rafale fighter jet, developed by France’s Dassault Aviation, was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2020 and has since become a key pillar of India’s air combat strength. The aircraft demonstrated its unmatched capability during “Operation Sindoor” in May 2025, where it played a crucial role in neutralising terror infrastructure across the border.
With its cutting-edge avionics, exceptional speed, and pinpoint precision, the Rafale has greatly boosted India’s strategic deterrence and aerial dominance, marking a major leap in the nation’s defence preparedness.
Some Important Facts
- Date of Event: October 29, 2025
- President Droupadi Murmu took a 30-minute sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana.
- Aircraft Details:
- Rafale jets were officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020.
- They form part of the No. 17 Squadron “Golden Arrows”, based at Ambala, Haryana.
- Military Operation:
- During “Operation Sindoor” (May 2025), Rafale jets successfully targeted terror bases located in Pakistan-controlled regions, showcasing India’s enhanced strike capability.
- Previous Presidential Sorties:
- 1. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (2006) – Flew in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Pune Air Base.
- Pratibha Patil (2009) – Became the first woman President to take a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Pune.
- Droupadi Murmu (2023) – Took her first fighter jet sortie in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from Tezpur, Assam.
Strengthening the Symbolism of National Defence
The President’s Rafale sortie highlights India’s advancing technological strength in defence aviation and the inspiring leadership of the nation’s highest office. More than just a display of military capability, this historic flight represents national pride, women’s empowerment, and the deep connection between the Commander-in-Chief and the brave men and women of the armed forces who protect the nation’s skies. It serves as a strong reminder of India’s growing self-reliance and confidence in its defence capabilities.
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