In a significant display of India’s growing aerial prowess, President Droupadi Murmu scripted history on Friday by taking a sortie in the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand’. This follows her previous flight in the Rafale fighter jet, making her the first President to fly in this sophisticated made-in-India attack helicopter.

The President, who is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, visited the Air Force Station in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, located near the Indo-Pak border. Dressed in flight overalls, she took to the skies to experience firsthand the capabilities of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) latest lethal asset.

The sortie was more than just a flight; it was a loud endorsement of India's defense manufacturing. After landing, the President expressed her pride in the nation's technical advancements.

The 'Prachand' is a landmark achievement for the Indian defense sector: 1.It is the only attack helicopter in the world capable of landing and taking off at altitudes of 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), making it ideal for the Himalayas and Siachen. 2.Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), it features stealth characteristics, armored protection, and formidable night-attack capabilities. 3.Equipped with air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, it is designed to neutralize enemy air defenses and slow-moving aircraft.

The President’s flight sends a powerful message to the global community regarding India's transition from being a top defense importer to a creator of world-class military hardware.