By: Bharat Daily Samachar Date: 29 October 2025

A Historic First for the Presidency

This marks the first time President Murmu has flown in a combat aircraft since assuming office in 2022. The sortie was conducted from the Indian Air Force’s premier base in Ambala, home to the country’s first Rafale squadron. Dressed in an Air Force flight suit, the President was warmly received by senior IAF officers before the mission briefing began.

The aircraft took off with Wing Commander-level pilots at the helm, following standard flight and safety protocols. The flight lasted approximately 30 minutes, during which the President experienced a glimpse of the advanced systems and operational performance that make the Rafale one of the most formidable fighter jets in the world.

Symbol of India’s Defence Strength

The Rafale jet, manufactured by Dassault Aviation, represents one of the most advanced multirole fighters in global service. Its ability to perform air superiority, deep strike, and reconnaissance missions with precision has significantly enhanced India’s air capabilities.

President Murmu’s flight was more than ceremonial—it underscored the trust and professionalism that define the Indian Air Force. Defence analysts viewed the gesture as an acknowledgment of the dedication of air warriors who maintain the nation’s security both in peace and during crises.

In a statement, Air Chief Marshal V. R. Chaudhari expressed pride in the occasion, saying that the President’s presence reflected the nation’s gratitude toward those who protect its skies. He added that such events boost morale across the force and strengthen the bond between leadership and personnel.

Showcasing Modernisation and Indigenous Progress

India’s acquisition of Rafale fighters from France marked a significant step in modernising its air fleet. The twin-engine aircraft is equipped with cutting-edge radar, advanced weaponry, and electronic warfare systems that allow it to operate effectively under all conditions.

Over the past few years, India has not only integrated Rafales into its operational network but also begun aligning them with indigenous systems and training frameworks. The integration demonstrates India’s focus on both global partnerships and domestic innovation under the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.

President Murmu’s sortie highlighted how far the nation has come in balancing imported precision technology with local manufacturing capabilities and homegrown research.

Gesture of Unity and Motivation

Beyond its technical significance, the sortie carried deep emotional and symbolic value. As the Commander-in-Chief, the President’s flight represented unity and respect for the armed forces. Her willingness to take part in an actual fighter mission sent a strong message of encouragement to defence personnel, especially women in uniform who continue to break barriers in one of the most demanding professions.

Observers noted that the event served as a morale booster not just for the Air Force but for the wider defence community. The President personally interacted with pilots, engineers, and technical staff after landing, expressing admiration for their professionalism and discipline.

She later remarked that witnessing the skill and precision of the Air Force firsthand reaffirmed her faith in India’s defence preparedness and the dedication of its servicemen and women.

A Broader Strategic Message

The timing of the sortie also holds broader strategic relevance. With regional security dynamics evolving rapidly, India’s emphasis on preparedness, technology, and operational readiness has become more visible.

By choosing to fly in a combat aircraft, the President symbolically reinforced the government’s commitment to a strong and self-reliant military posture. The gesture also showcased the nation’s confidence in its defence acquisitions and operational capabilities amid a complex global environment.

Human Element Behind the Machines

While much attention focuses on the aircraft itself, the sortie also celebrated the human element—the skilled pilots, engineers, and ground crew who ensure every mission’s success. The Indian Air Force is known for maintaining rigorous training standards, safety procedures, and a culture of professionalism that few forces in the world can match.

The President’s visit included a detailed briefing about the aircraft’s features, flight controls, and safety systems, underscoring her keen interest in understanding the lives and challenges of Air Force personnel.

A Source of National Pride

For citizens across the country, images of the President donning an Air Force suit and stepping into the cockpit of a Rafale became a source of immense pride. Social media platforms flooded with messages celebrating the moment as a reflection of India’s strength, progress, and unity.

Defence experts hailed the event as a symbol of gender inclusion and national empowerment, noting that the nation’s first tribal woman President flying in one of the world’s most advanced jets was itself a historic statement.

Looking Ahead

The sortie in Ambala may have lasted only a short while, but its impact will linger. It reaffirmed the essential relationship between national leadership and the armed forces—a partnership built on trust, admiration, and shared purpose.

As India continues to modernise its defence infrastructure, moments like these remind citizens that behind every aircraft, every mission, and every milestone lies the unwavering commitment of those who protect the nation.

President Murmu’s flight was more than an aerial exercise; it was a salute to the spirit of service and a reminder that India’s strength soars highest when unity and courage take flight together.