At the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam, President Droupadi Murmu made history by taking a ride in a Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft. She became the second woman and third President to do so. In the visitor’s book, she congratulated the Indian Air Force and the team at Air Force Station Tezpur for organizing the experience.
The President described the ride as “exhilarating” and expressed pride in India’s defense capabilities covering all land, air, and sea frontiers. She also received a briefing on the operational capabilities of the aircraft and the Indian Air Force, which left her satisfied with their preparedness.
The flight lasted approximately 30 minutes and covered Brahmaputra and Tezpur valley. Gp Capt Naveen Kumar, CO of 106 Squadron, piloted the aircraft at a height of about two kilometers above sea level and a speed of roughly 800 kilometers per hour.
- The Sukhoi 30 MKI is a twin-engine, multirole fighter jet designed by Russia’s Sukhoi and built under license by India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). It is one of the most advanced fighters in the Indian Air Force’s arsenal and has been in service since 2002.
- President Murmu’s flight took place on April 8, 2023, at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam. The station is located in the northeast part of India, close to the borders with China and Bhutan. It is home to several squadrons of fighter jets, including the Sukhoi 30 MKI.
- The President’s flight was part of a broader program to showcase India’s defense capabilities to the public. The Indian Air Force regularly organizes such events, where civilians and dignitaries can experience a flight in a fighter jet or watch aerobatic displays.
- Before taking off, President Murmu underwent a medical checkup to ensure she was fit for the flight. She also received a safety briefing and was equipped with a flight suit, helmet, and oxygen mask. During the flight, she was seated in the rear cockpit of the Sukhoi 30 MKI, behind the pilot.
- The President’s flight covered a distance of approximately 250 kilometers and included several maneuvers, such as rolls, loops, and dives. The pilot also demonstrated the aircraft’s weapons systems and electronic sensors. President Murmu was able to observe the Brahmaputra River and the surrounding landscape from a unique perspective.
- After the flight, President Murmu met with the pilots and ground crew involved in the operation. She also signed the visitor’s book and posed for photographs with the aircraft. Her flight was widely covered by the media, and it received praise from politicians and defense experts for highlighting India’s military strength.
