Rafale Induction Ceremony: 5 Rafale Jets Join Indian Air Force Today

The grand Rafale Induction ceremony took place today in Ambala, Haryana. The stupendous event was graced by defence minister Rajnath Singh and his French counterpart and Minister of the Armed Forces of France Florence Parly. Florence Parly received a ceremonial Guard of Honour on her arrival at Delhi. 

A Sarva Dharma Puja was held at the beginning of the ceremony; an act of showering blessings. Both Rajnath Singh and France Florence Parly witnessed the auspicious ceremony. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Air Force Chief Air Marshal RKS Bhadauria were also present. 

The five multirole Rafale aircraft were formally inducted in 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ of the Indian Air Force in Ambala, airbase. These jets are considered among the world’s most advance. 

India had signed Rs.59, 000 crore deal for 36 Rafale jets with France in September 2016 which is the largest ever defence deal signed by India. The first five Rafale jets arrived in India on July 29 and the second batch is likely to arrive in November. 

#WATCH Rafale fighter aircraft flying at low-speed during an air display at Indian Air Force base in Ambala pic.twitter.com/8UhgbROzRN

— ANI (@ANI) September 10, 2020

The Rafale and Tejas aircrafts, Jaguars, Sukhoi-30 MKIs and Sarang helicopters made an impressive air display with their skilled air maneuvers. The Sarang helicopters made a spectacular diamond formation on the sky. The Rafale jets were given a water cannon salute after the air maneuvers were performed. 

#WATCH: Water cannon salute given to the five Rafale fighter aircraft at Ambala airbase. #Haryana pic.twitter.com/SB9jhyp1Ox

— ANI (@ANI) September 10, 2020

At the ceremony France Florence Parly said, “Today, is an achievement for our countries. Together we are writing a new chapter in India- France defence ties.” They are also fully committed to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. 

Speaking at the event the defence minister said, “Today, this induction sends a strong message to those who have raised an eye at us. This induction is very crucial, considering the border situation.” He expressed that the induction of the Rafale jets has strengthened the ties between India and France.