Meet Group Captain Amit Gehani: The Man Who Took President Droupadi Murmu on a Rafale Sortie

Group Captain Amit Gehani stands as a symbol of dedication and excellence in the Indian Air Force (IAF), particularly noted for his role in piloting President Droupadi Murmu during her historic Rafale sortie on October 29, 2025. As the Commanding Officer (CO) of the elite No. 17 Squadron, known as the "Golden Arrows," Gehani has not only demonstrated exceptional flying skills but also led his unit through high-stakes operations that have bolstered India's defense posture. This comprehensive profile delves into his career trajectory, key achievements, the significance of the Rafale sortie, his contributions to Operation Sindoor, and the broader implications for India's airpower. Drawing from official records, interviews, and recent events, it highlights how Gehani's leadership embodies the IAF's motto of "Touch the Sky with Glory."

Early Career and Training

Amit Gehani's entry into the IAF traces back to his commissioning on December 17, 2005, as part of the 176th Course in the Flying (Pilot) branch. While public details on his pre-commissioning education and family background are sparse—typical for serving officers to maintain privacy—available records indicate a strong foundation in aviation training. Early in his career, as a Squadron Leader, Gehani underwent advanced training with the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF), where he participated in joint exercises. In one notable instance from 2015, he opposed RAF Flight Lieutenant Highmoor in a simulated sortie, showcasing his tactical prowess and adaptability to international standards. This exposure likely honed his skills in multi-role fighter operations, preparing him for leadership roles in advanced platforms like the Rafale.

Gehani's promotions reflect a steady rise: he was elevated to Wing Commander on December 17, 2018, and subsequently to Group Captain. By the mid-2020s, he assumed command of No. 17 Squadron at Ambala Air Force Station, the IAF's premier Rafale unit. Ambala holds historical significance as the first base to induct Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation in France, with the squadron becoming fully operational by 2020 following a 2016 procurement deal.

Leadership in Operation Sindoor

One of Gehani's most prominent contributions came during Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory campaign launched on May 7, 2025, following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians. Under Gehani's command, the Golden Arrows squadron spearheaded unescorted precision strikes, crossing into hostile airspace to neutralize nine terrorist launch pads in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), resulting in over 100 terrorist casualties. Subsequent missions targeted more than a dozen Pakistani air bases, marking a historic feat in combat aviation for coordinated long-range strikes.

The operation showcased the Rafale's advanced capabilities, including aerial refueling for extended range, the Thales targeting pod for pinpoint accuracy in adverse weather, and the SPECTRA electronic warfare suite for evading threats. In an interview reflecting on the mission 100 days later, Gehani emphasized the aircraft's superiority: "Rafale is an ultra-advanced weapon platform—a 4.5 generation fighter aircraft. It fulfilled all the responsibilities it was assigned with during Operation Sindoor. One should not doubt the aircraft’s capabilities. It is fully equipped to take on jets like J-10 or J-35."

For their exemplary performance, No. 17 Squadron received a Unit Citation on October 8, 2025, during the 93rd Indian Air Force Day celebrations at Hindon Air Force Station. Gehani, alongside the squadron's top senior non-commissioned officer, accepted the honor from IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, recognizing their precision, coordination, and commitment to national security. This award not only honored the squadron's role in establishing India's air superiority but also served as a deterrent signal amid regional tensions.

The Historic Rafale Sortie with President Murmu

On October 29, 2025, Gehani piloted President Droupadi Murmu on her inaugural Rafale flight from Ambala Air Force Station, a 30-minute sortie covering 200 kilometers at an altitude of 15,000 feet and a speed of 700 km/h. This event made Murmu the first Indian President to undertake sorties in two IAF fighters, following her 2023 flight in a Sukhoi-30 MKI at Tezpur. Accompanied by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh in a parallel Rafale, the flight symbolized the IAF's operational readiness and the Rafale's integration into India's defense arsenal.

President Murmu, upon landing, expressed her exhilaration in the visitor's book: "The sortie on Rafale is an unforgettable experience for me. This first flight on the potent Rafale aircraft has instilled in me a renewed sense of pride in the nation's defence capabilities." She was briefed on the Rafale's features, including its Mach 1.8 top speed, over 1,000 km combat radius, Meteor beyond-visual-range missiles (150+ km engagement), and SCALP cruise missiles for standoff strikes (300+ km). The President also met Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh, a Rafale pilot who faced Pakistani propaganda during Operation Sindoor, highlighting women's roles in the IAF.

This sortie, occurring shortly after the Unit Citation, underscored Gehani's trustworthiness in handling high-profile missions and reinforced public confidence in India's military prowess.

Rafale: The Platform Gehani Commands

The Rafale, a twin-engine omni-role fighter, represents a cornerstone of Gehani's squadron. Procured under a 2016 deal, India now operates two full squadrons, with Ambala as the eastern hub. Its versatility allows seamless transitions between missions, supported by advanced avionics like the SPECTRA suite for electronic warfare and jamming. Gehani's experience with the aircraft, including in Operation Sindoor, has positioned him as an advocate for its capabilities against regional threats.

Broader Impact and Legacy

Gehani's career extends beyond combat; he inspires the next generation of pilots through his emphasis on morale and readiness. His squadron's success in Operation Sindoor has reshaped perceptions of India's airpower, serving as a deterrent in a volatile region. While personal details remain private, Gehani's public persona reflects humility and professionalism, as seen in his interactions during the President's visit.

In an era of evolving threats, leaders like Gehani ensure the IAF remains at the forefront of innovation and defense. His piloting of President Murmu not only honored his service but also bridged civilian leadership with military excellence, fostering national pride.

Gehani's story is one of quiet valor, technical mastery, and unwavering commitment—qualities that define the guardians of India's skies.