Chandigarh, September 10 – Union Defence Minister, Mr. Rajnath Singh said that it is the result of the strong will power of Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi that we are able to see the massive strength of Rafale jets with our eyes today. Though many challenges came in the way, the farsighted approach of Mr. Modi has paved the way for further strengthening of our armed forces.
Mr. Rajnath Singh was speaking as a Chief Guest at the Induction ceremony of ultra-modern Rafale fighter jets held at Air Force Station in Ambala Cantonment today.
While congratulating the Indian Air Force, Armed Forces and people of the country, the Union Defence Minister said that there is a need to prepare ourselves keeping in view the changing times. He said that induction of Rafale in the Indian Air Force is a historic moment and it is a matter of pride for all the citizens of the country to witness this event.
Mr. Rajnath Singh said that Rafale induction into the Indian Air Force fleet reflects the close relations between India and France. He said India and France have been economic, cultural and strategic partners since long. Our faith in strong democracy and desire for peace in the entire world are the basis of our mutual relations, he added. He said that there is a special strategic partnership between India and France, which is steadily strengthening over the time and added that after India’s independence, vibrant defence cooperation has developed between both the countries.
He said that Rafale induction today is being seen as a strong message for the whole world, especially those against our sovereignty. This induction is very significant in terms of the kind of atmosphere that has been created on our borders in recent times, he asserted.
The Defence Minister said that our responsibilities are not limited only to our territorial borders but as a responsible country we are also committed to world peace and continuous mutual cooperation with the international community in the Indo Pacific region and Indian Ocean region also. Our role is constantly increasing in these areas and is also being appreciated, said Mr Rajnath Singh.
Mr. Rajnath Singh also took this opportunity to congratulate the Indian Air Force saying that during the recent unfortunate incident on the border, the swift and deliberate action taken by the Indian Air Force near LAC shows their commitment towards the country. He said that the speed with which Air Force deployed its Assets at the forward location creates a confidence that our Air Force is fully prepared to meet its operational obligations. The speed and precision that the Indian Air Force has shown in the ongoing operations has certainly conveyed the message and intention of our country to all the potential opponents, he further added.
On this occasion, he also congratulated the historic 17 Squadron and said that their name is registered in golden letters in the history of Indian valour. He said that Rafale induction will give ‘Golden Arrows’ a new shine and they should keep on protecting the ‘integrity and sovereignty’ of the country by remaining dynamic like Rafale.
Mr Rajnath Singh alongwith French Defence Minister Ms Florence Parly who was also present on this occasion honoured the brave pilots of the Air Force by presenting them mementos.
Speaking on this occasion, French Defence Minister, Ms Florence Parly congratulated the Indian Air Force on the induction of Rafale jet and said that India and France have strong and close ties. She said that France has always stood by India for strengthening its Army. She said that under the leadership of Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, the armed forces have been further strengthened and the country is continuously marching ahead in every field.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, Defence Secretary Dr. Ajay Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence and Chairman DRDO, Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, Haryana Home Minister, Mr. Anil Vij, Chief Secretary, Mrs. Keshni Anand Arora, DGP Mr Manoj Yadava, Divisional Commissioner Ms Deepti Umashankar and other senior officers of civil and police administration were also present on this occasion.
Rafael Deal with France will be a ‘game-changer’: Mr. Rajnath
Calling the induction of the Rafale fighter jet into the Indian Air Force (IAF) a “game changer”, Defence Minister, Mr. Rajnath Singh said that this will certainly give a major boost to India’s National Security. The induction of Rafale into IAF also highlights strong ties between India and France, he said. Mr. Rajnath Singh further said that long range operation, feature weapons like weight and the ability to carry extra fuel, ability to operate from short landing, high speed, makes Rafael best aircraft in the world. With its multirole capability, it is capable of performing infallible actions against enemies. “I am confident that the capabilities and technological edge acquired with Rafale induction will revolutionize the IAF capabilities,” said Mr. Rajnath.

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