On October 29, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, made history with a sortie in a Rafale fighter jet at the Ambala Air Force Station in Haryana. This marks her second experience in a combat aircraft, following a flight in a Sukhoi-30 MKI at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam in April 2023. The sortie lasted approximately 30 minutes, highlighting India’s advanced military capabilities and underscoring the President’s commitment to engaging with the nation’s defense forces.
Upon her arrival at the Ambala Air Force Station, President Murmu received a Guard of Honour before heading to the aircraft. She was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, the Commanding Officer of the No. 17 Squadron, famously known as the “Golden Arrows.” Accompanying her in a separate Rafale jet was Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Indian Air Force. This display of high-level coordination within military leadership signifies a united front in the country’s defense strategy.
The Ambala base itself is strategically significant, especially given its role during recent border tensions involving India. President Murmu’s participation in this sortie not only emphasizes the importance of modern fighter aircraft in bolstering India’s defense mechanisms but also aims to foster national pride in both indigenous and acquired military technology.
This flight represents a personal achievement for President Murmu as well as contributing to the broader narrative of showcasing the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness. The Indian Air Force undertook special preparations to ensure the success of the event, reflecting careful planning and robust security protocols. Engagements like this one by high-ranking officials play a crucial role in raising public awareness about India’s defense infrastructure and capabilities.
