New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday formally inducted the five Rafale fighter jets, which arrived in India on July 29, in the Indian Air Force (IAF). The induction ceremony took place at the Ambala Air Force base, where IAF’s 17 Squadron, also called ‘Golden Arrows’, is based. India’s first five Rafale fighters will be a part of the ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron.
Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh and the French Minister for the Armed Forces, Ms @florence_parly unveiling Rafale at Ambala Air Force Station. pic.twitter.com/I5926bLqXG
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 10, 2020
The first batch of 5 Rafale fighter jets formally inducted into the Indian Air Force today at Ambala Airbase amidst an ongoing conflict with China in East Ladakh. The event was attended by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, France’s Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly, CDS General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Air Staff RKS Bhadauria and Defense Secretary Ajay Kumar.
Air Display by @IAF_MCC at Air Force Station in Ambala pic.twitter.com/Lsdk2fthCU
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) September 10, 2020
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said at this time that Rafale joining the Air Force is a moment of pride. It is a matter of concern for crores of countrymen. He also said that the Indian Air Force has always proved itself under all circumstances to convince the enemies of India’s power. We also have to be ready with the changing times. Our military intent is strong like iron. Our Air Force is always ready for its operation. Your action will prove to be decisive in future battles.
Fully committed to ‘Make in India’ initiative: Parly
France’s Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly said in his address that France is fully committed to ‘Make in India’ initiative, as well as, to the further integration of the Indian manufacturers in its global supply chain. Parly during the induction ceremony added that France supports India’s candidacy for the United Nations Security Council. She also said, “Proud to share our knowhow with India.” India is different in itself. Rafale is a sign of the alliance between the two countries.
Earlier, Rajnath Singh and his French counterpart Florence Parly witnessed the ‘Sarva Dharma Puja’ at the Ambala airbase.
#RafaleInduction
IAF has formally inducted the #Rafale aircraft in 17 Squadron 'Golden Arrows' today, at Air Force Station, Ambala. The ceremony also marks #Rafale’s full operational entry into IAF.Glimpses of the Rafale in action with IAF. pic.twitter.com/WfohU5vMET
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) September 10, 2020
Chief of the Air Staff RKS Bhadauria termed Rafale’s inclusion in the Air Force fleet as a historic moment. He exuded confidence that this will further strengthen the strength of the Indian Air Force.
#WATCH: Water cannon salute given to the five Rafale fighter aircraft at Ambala airbase. #Haryana pic.twitter.com/SB9jhyp1Ox
— ANI (@ANI) September 10, 2020
Welcomed by water shower
Today, when Rafale aircraft were inducted into the 17 Squadron ‘Golden Arrows’ of the Air Force, the planes returned to the ground by flying in the air were given a traditional salute with water splashes.
