President Droupadi Murmu Takes Sortie in Rafale Fighter Jet at Ambala Air Base

President Droupadi Murmu created history on Wednesday by taking a 30-minute sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana. The symbolic flight highlighted India’s growing air defence capabilities and the role of women leadership in national security. The President, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour on arrival.

Historic Flight at Ambala Air Force Station

President Murmu boarded the twin-seater Rafale aircraft at around 11:27 am, wearing a G-suit and flight gear, and waved from the cockpit before take-off. The sortie was conducted under the supervision of senior Air Force officers, including Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who flew in a separate aircraft. Upon completion of the flight, she deboarded the aircraft to a warm reception from IAF personnel, marking a proud moment for the nation’s armed forces.

Following the Legacy of Presidential Sorties

This was President Murmu’s second fighter jet sortie since assuming office. In April 2023, she became the third Indian President and the second woman head of state to fly in a Sukhoi-30 MKI from the Tezpur Air Base in Assam. Earlier, former Presidents Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil had undertaken similar sorties in Sukhoi jets in 2006 and 2009 respectively. Such engagements symbolise the President’s close connection with the armed forces and their operational preparedness.

Rafale’s Role in India’s Defence Operations

The Rafale, manufactured by France’s Dassault Aviation, was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2020 and remains the cornerstone of India’s aerial strike capabilities. The aircraft played a decisive role in “Operation Sindoor”, launched in May 2025 to neutralise terror infrastructure across the border. The multi-role jet’s precision, speed, and advanced avionics have significantly enhanced India’s strategic deterrence.

Exam Oriented Facts

• President Murmu took a 30-minute sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at Ambala Air Force Station on October 29, 2025.
• Rafale jets were inducted into the Indian Air Force in September 2020 as part of the 17 Squadron, ‘Golden Arrows’.
• “Operation Sindoor” in May 2025 saw Rafales targeting terror bases in Pakistan-controlled areas.
• Previous Presidents to take sorties include APJ Abdul Kalam (2006) and Pratibha Patil (2009) in Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft.

Strengthening National Defence Symbolism

The President’s Rafale sortie underlines India’s growing technological edge in defence aviation and the symbolic leadership role of the nation’s highest office. Beyond showcasing operational strength, the flight reflects national pride, women’s empowerment, and the enduring bond between the Commander-in-Chief and the armed forces safeguarding the nation’s skies.