President Droupadi Murmu scripted history yet again by piloting the skies in India’s indigenously built Prachand light combat helicopter during the high-octane Vayu Shakti 2026 drills in Jaisalmer. As the armed forces’ top commander, her flight in the advanced chopper alongside Air Force chief AP Singh marked a stellar moment for ‘Make in India’ in defense.
Geared up in full flight attire, the President flew in tandem with another Prachand, marveling at its prowess in rugged terrains and lofty heights. Designed for the harshest battle conditions, the helicopter features state-of-the-art sensors, anti-tank missiles, and rocket pods, making it ideal for Siachen-like environments.
This exhilarating sortie comes amid Vayu Shakti, where the IAF unleashes a barrage of aerial might, from Rafales to Apache gunships, proving India’s combat edge. Murmu’s engagement elevates the exercise’s prestige, reinforcing troop spirits and national confidence in homegrown tech.
Reflecting on her trailblazing journeys, the President had previously soared in a Rafale from Ambala in October, following a Sukhoi-30 ride in Assam last year. Her December dive into INS Vagsheer, a stealthy Kalvari submarine, echoed the legacy of APJ Abdul Kalam, the only other President to do so. Briefed on submarine armaments and underwater networks, she applauded the navy’s advancements.
Defense analysts hail these experiences as badges of India’s military evolution. From fighter jets to choppers and subs, Murmu’s hands-on approach spotlights Atmanirbhar Bharat’s success, propelling India towards global defense leadership. The Jaisalmer flight, witnessed by top brass, salutes the IAF’s valor and innovation.