President Droupadi Murmu undertook a sortie in the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand’ at Air Force Station Jaisalmer today, marking yet another milestone in her engagement with India’s frontline defence platforms.
The mission was flown as a two-aircraft LCH formation lasting approximately 25 minutes. President Murmu occupied the lead aircraft alongside Group Captain Nayan Shantilal Bahua, while Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and Group Captain A. Mahendra flew as Number 2. The formation soared over the picturesque Gadisar Lake and the iconic Jaisalmer Fort before successfully engaging a simulated tank target.
This sortie follows President Murmu’s earlier flights in the Sukhoi-30 MKI in 2023 and the Rafale in 2025, reaffirming her hands-on connect with the Indian Air Force’s operational fleet.
After landing, the President penned a heartfelt note in the visitors’ book: “The sortie in India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter ‘Prachand’ is an enriching experience for me. This sortie has filled me with a renewed sense of pride in the nation’s defence capabilities. I congratulate the Indian Air Force and the entire team of Air Force Station Jaisalmer for successfully organising this sortie.”
Later in the evening, the President will witness the Indian Air Force’s marquee Exercise Vayu Shakti at Jaisalmer, further highlighting the IAF’s combat readiness and the growing prowess of India’s indigenous defence industry.
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