President Droupadi Murmu Makes Waves with Historic Submarine Dive and Fighter Jet Flight
A Historic Day for the Indian Navy
New Delhi: On Sunday, President Droupadi Murmu boarded the indigenous Kalvari-class submarine INS Vaghsheer at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka, marking a significant milestone with her first dive sortie, as confirmed by an official.
Accompanied by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the President's journey along the Western Seaboard was described as a momentous occasion. This event marks only the second time an Indian President has experienced a submarine sortie, following in the footsteps of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
During her time aboard INS Vaghsheer, the President was briefed on the submarine's vital role in India's maritime strategy, its operational capabilities, and its contributions to safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.
She took the opportunity to engage with the submarine's crew, praising their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to service.
President Murmu emphasized that the indigenous submarine exemplifies the Indian Navy's excellence, combat readiness, and steadfast dedication to national security.
Earlier, on October 29, she made headlines by flying in a Rafale fighter jet at Air Force Station Ambala in Haryana, becoming the first President to pilot two different types of Indian Air Force fighter aircraft. Her previous flight was in a Sukhoi-30 MKI earlier this year.
Air Force Station Ambala is notable as the first base to receive Rafale aircraft from Dassault Aviation in France.
The President's flight lasted approximately 30 minutes, covering a distance of nearly 200 kilometers, before safely returning to base.
The Rafale was piloted by Group Captain Amit Gehani, the commanding officer of the 17 Squadron, flying at an altitude of around 15,000 feet and reaching speeds of about 700 km/h.
In the visitor's book, President Murmu expressed her joy about her inaugural flight on the Rafale, stating, "The sortie on Rafale is an unforgettable experience for me. This first flight on the potent Rafale aircraft has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities. I congratulate the Indian Air Force and the entire team of Air Force Station Ambala for organising this sortie successfully."