### Historic Flight: President Droupadi Murmu Takes to the Skies in Rafale Jet On October 29, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, made history by flying a Rafale fighter jet from the Ambala Air Force Station. This 30-minute sortie, which covered approximately 200 kilometers, marks a significant milestone not only for the President but also for India's defense capabilities. The flight was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, who had recently participated in Operation Sindoor, a mission targeting terror hubs in Pakistan. During her visit, President Murmu also met Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh, India's first woman Rafale pilot, further emphasizing the role of women in defense [https://www.businesstoday.in/bt-tv/video/president-droupadi-murmu-flies-rafale-jet-in-ambala-historic-sortie-of-pride-power-500174-2025-10-30][https://www.rediff.com/news/report/see-president-murmu-takes-a-sortie-in-rafale/20251029.htm]. ### Structure of the Summary 1. **Historical Context** - President Murmu's flight is a continuation of a tradition where Indian Presidents undertake sorties in fighter jets, showcasing military readiness and air power. - This sortie follows her previous flight in a Sukhoi-30 MKI in April 2023, making her the first Indian President to fly in both aircraft types [https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Oct/29/president-droupadi-murmu-takes-sortie-in-rafale-fighter-jet][https://www.india.com/news/india/president-droupadi-murmu-sets-record-in-ambala-takes-sortie-in-rafale-after-sukhoi-watch-video-here-8155097]. 2. **Significance of the Flight** - The sortie underscores India's growing air power and the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force (IAF). - President Murmu expressed that the experience instilled a renewed sense of pride in India's defense capabilities, highlighting the importance of such events in boosting national morale [https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/india/historic-flight-india-president-murmu-takes-rafale-sortie-in-ambala-1.500325538][https://www.latestly.com/india/news/president-droupadi-murmu-takes-sortie-in-rafale-fighter-jet-in-ambala-says-it-instilled-in-me-renewed-sense-of-pride-in-indias-defence-capabilities-see-pics-7181940.html]. 3. **Women in Defense** - The meeting with Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh symbolizes the increasing representation of women in the Indian Armed Forces. - This event is a testament to the evolving role of women in leadership positions within the military [https://www.thedailyjagran.com/india/first-president-droupadi-murmu-to-fly-on-french-fighter-jet-sortie-at-ambala-air-force-station-video-10276463][https://bharatspeaks.com/president-droupadi-murmu-makes-history-again-takes-sortie-in-rafale-jet-at-ambala-air-base]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Flight Details:** - **Duration:** 30 minutes - **Distance Covered:** Approximately 200 kilometers - **Aircraft:** Rafale fighter jet, piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani - **Historical Significance:** - First Indian President to fly in both Rafale and Sukhoi-30 MKI jets. - Reinforces the tradition of Presidents flying in IAF aircraft to demonstrate military strength [https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/droupadi-murmu-becomes-first-indian-woman-president-to-fly-in-rafale-fighter-jet-23600750][https://newsriveting.com/president-droupadi-murmu-takes-rafale-sortie-in-ambala]. ### Conclusion: A Milestone in Indian Air Power In summary, President Droupadi Murmu's historic sortie in the Rafale fighter jet from Ambala Air Force Station represents a significant moment for India, showcasing the nation's military capabilities and the evolving role of women in defense. The flight not only highlights the operational readiness of the IAF but also serves as an inspiration for future generations. 1. **Historical Context:** President Murmu's flight continues a tradition of military engagement by Indian leaders. 2. **Significance of the Flight:** The sortie enhances national pride and showcases India's air power. 3. **Women in Defense:** The event underscores the growing representation of women in the military. This flight is a defining moment that reinforces India's commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture while celebrating the contributions of women in leadership roles [https://www.indianexpress.com/article/india/president-murmu-sortie-rafale-fighter-jet-10332158][https://kiddaan.com/droupadi-murmu-rafale-sortie-ambala].