President Droupadi Murmu becomes first to fly as co-pilot in ‘Prachand’ combat helicopter over Jaisalmer

JAISALMER: Thursday marked a historic day in India’s Airforce history on the sands of the Thar border in Jaisalmer, as the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, undertook an unprecedented flight in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) “Prachand.” The event was not merely a ceremonial military engagement, but a powerful demonstration of India’s growing self-reliance in defence production, technological advancement, and unwavering commitment to border security.

The President flew as a co-pilot in the combat helicopter for approximately 25 minutes, conducting an aerial survey of the Vayu Shakti exercise area, the country’s largest field firing range, and the nuclear test site in the region. During the flight, she also addressed the nation via radio from the helicopter. She became the first President of India to fly as a co-pilot in a combat helicopter.




Flying in formation alongside her LCH was another “Prachand” helicopter, piloted by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh.

President Murmu arrived at the Jaisalmer Air Force Station at approximately 9:15 a.m., where she was received by senior Air Force officials, including Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh, Air Marshal Tejendra Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Air Command, and Group Captain Amit Dubey, Station Commander of Jaisalmer Air Force Station.

Air Force officers briefed the President on the technical capabilities of the LCH “Prachand,” including its operational features, flight route, security protocols, and mission profile. Following the briefing, she proceeded to the LCH tarmac in a golf cart. Official photographs were taken against the backdrop of the combat helicopter, capturing a historic moment — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces standing beside an indigenously built combat platform on the frontier soil.

At around 9:42 a.m., the President entered the cockpit, fully geared with helmet and gloves, assisted by Air Force personnel and technical crew. The helicopter’s start-up and taxi procedures commenced at 9:50 a.m., and the roar of the engines filled the atmosphere with excitement as the aircraft moved towards the runway.

At approximately 10:15 a.m., the formation of two LCH helicopters took off together under a special sortie mission over the border region. During the flight, her live radio message was broadcast nationwide.

Flying over the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, the President addressed the nation, stating: "Today, I am flying in the Prachand helicopter. Prachand is a powerful symbol of self-reliance. At this moment, I am flying over the famous fort of Jaisalmer. I proudly thank our brave soldiers. My heartfelt greetings to everyone. Jai Hind, Jai Bharat."

In her radio message, she praised the operational capability of the Indian Air Force, India’s indigenous defence manufacturing strength, and the courage of the armed forces personnel. Her words served as a major morale booster for soldiers deployed along the borders.

The helicopter landed safely at around 10:40 a.m. Following post-landing taxi and shutdown procedures, the President stepped out of the cockpit and was received by the aircrew and ground crew. Formal photography sessions followed, including pictures with the pilot of “Prachand.”

As part of the ceremony, a memento presentation was also held. The President presented a commemorative token to the helicopter pilot, symbolizing military tradition and national honour.

The entire area resonated with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

The programme concluded with a group photograph and the signing of the Visitors’ Book, where the President recorded her appreciation for the professionalism and dedication of the Indian Air Force.