NDTV

Lohgaon Air Force Base, Jun 9: President APJ Abdul Kalam became the first Indian head of state to fly a sortie in a Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter jet on Thursday.

The 40-minute sortie was the realisation of a childhood dream for the 74-year-old former missile scientist, who was once rejected by the Indian Air Force for the flight.

"I wanted to inspire the youth of the country," said Kalam.

The President made the historic sortie from the Lohegaon Air Force base in Pune with Wing Commander Ajay Rathore, Commanding Officer of the SU-30 MKI squadron in the pilot's seat.

Rathore first took the President to an altitude of 20,000 feet before taking him through a series of aerial manouvers.

The commanding officer of the lightning squadron then showed the President how to acquire both aerial and ground targets using the aircraft's radar.

The President also took control of the Sukhoi in the air for a little while.

Back on terra firma, Kalam was treated to a spectacular air show that showcased both the defensive and offensive capabilities of the Sukhoi 30s.

Advanced systems

The Sukhoi 30 MKI is one of the world's most advanced jet fighters and is the pride of the Indian Air Force.

Acquired in 2001, these Russian-made fighter jets, which have some of the world's most advanced avionics and systems, represent the Indian Air Force's most potent strike force.

With a range of over 2500 km, the Sukhoi 30s can also refuel mid-air.

Kalam, a former missile man, has been a scientific advisor to several defence ministers in the past.

On Thursday, he proved the point once again by becoming the first President and certainly the oldest man to fly the Sukhoi 30 in the world.