On October 29, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu, Supreme Commander of India's Armed Forces, created history by flying in a Rafale fighter jet at Ambala Air Force Station, Haryana. This marks the first time an Indian President has flown in the potent French-origin Rafale, joining the elite ranks of leaders with combat aircraft experience.
Key Highlights:
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President Murmu suited up in a G-suit and helmet, assisted by IAF’s Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh, before boarding the jet for a 30-minute sortie covering 200 km and reaching over 15,000 ft altitude at 700 km/h speed.
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Air Chief Marshal AP Singh accompanied in a second Rafale, making it a formation flight for India's top command.
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The Rafale squadron at Ambala recently led precision airstrikes during Operation Sindoor, targeting terror bases across the border post the Pahalgam incident.
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Former presidents APJ Abdul Kalam and Pratibha Patil previously flew in Sukhoi-30 MKI jets, but Murmu is the first to fly both Sukhoi and Rafale.
President’s Message:
After the flight, President Murmu wrote in the visitor’s book, “The sortie on Rafale is an unforgettable experience... instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in our nation’s defence capabilities.”
Symbolism & Impact:
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The flight sends a strategic signal about India’s air power and presidential engagement with the armed forces.
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Posing with pilot Shivangi Singh, recently subject of false claims by Pakistan media, President Murmu’s sortie also asserted the integrity and strength of India’s armed services.