New Delhi: The first five Rafale fighter jets that arrived on July 29 were formally inducted as part of the 17 Squadron, nicknamed Golden Arrows, at Ambala Air Force Station on Thursday.
Speaking at the ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the induction of the five Rafale fighter jets are important given the kind of situation that has been created on the country’s borders in recent days. “The induction of Rafale into IAF also represents the strong ties between India and France. The strategic ties between our two countries have also strengthened,” he added.
The ceremony at Ambala Air Force Station included a ceremonial unveiling of the Rafale aircraft, a traditional ‘Sarva Dharma Puja’, Air Display by Rafale and Tejas aircraft as well as by ‘Sarang Aerobatic Team’. It was followed by the traditional water cannon salute for the fighter jets. The proceedings culminated the ceremonial induction of Rafale to Golden Arrows.
