Daijiworld Media Network - Ambala 

Ambala, Sep 10: The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday formally inducted the fourth-generation flying machine, Rafale in its arsenal. The first batch of five aircraft was formally inducted into the IAF's inventory at a ceremony held at the strategic Ambala airbase. The event was attended by Union defence minister Rajnath Singh and Florence Parly minister of the armed forces of France.

The traditional 'Sarva Dharma Puja' at the Rafale induction ceremony, was carried on which involved recitation of hymns, ayats, and mantras by priests of various religions.

The chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat, chief of the air staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, defence secretary Ajay Kumar along with other senior officers of the ministry of defence and armed forces were also present on the glorious occasion. Touted be one of the most advanced flying machines, Rafale would be part of 17-Squadron, which is popularly known as the 'Golden Arrows' at the Ambala airbase.

The first five Indian Air Force Rafale aircraft had arrived at the Ambala airbase from France on July 27. The formal induction ceremony, however, was deferred to ensure that the pilots and crew put their heads down and become integrated with the overall IAF operations at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the second batch of aircraft is expected to arrive in India later this year in November. The IAF would be acquiring a total of 36 Rafale jets from France and all the aircraft are expected to be inducted into IAF by the end of 2021. Rafales are India’s first major acquisition of fighter aircraft for IAF after Sukhoi that was inducted around 23 years back.