President Droupadi Murmu becomes the first woman President globally to fly both Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and Rafale fighter jets, marking a historic milestone
OdishaPlus Bureau
President Droupadi Murmu made history on Wednesday by becoming the first female President globally to have piloted both the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and Rafale fighter jets.
In fact, she also earned the distinction of being the only President worldwide – regardless of gender – to have flown in these aircraft. Indonesia is likely the only other nation besides India that operates both Sukhois and Rafales, yet there is no record indicating that any of its presidents have ever flown in these aircraft.
While the Su-30 MKI originates from Russia, the Rafale is manufactured in France.”The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, will visit Ambala, Haryana, tomorrow, where she will undertake a sortie in a Rafale,” stated Rashtrapati Bhavan in a release on Tuesday.
President Murmu’s visit was initially planned for October but was postponed. This visit is part of an Indian Air Force (IAF) initiative at Air Force Station Ambala.
On April 8, 2023, President Murmu completed a sortie in a Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam.
It is noteworthy that both Sukhois and Rafales were actively involved during Operation Sindoor.
During her visit, a special ceremony took place at the Air Force base, attended by numerous senior military officials and dignitaries. President Murmu engaged with Air Force officers at the event and received briefings regarding the nation’s security and defense readiness.