Watch: Rafale jets' induction to IAF fleet will boost its striking power says former Air Force officer

The first batch of five Rafale jets on Monday took off from France for India. The multi-role fighter aircraft are scheduled to arrive at Ambala air force station on Wednesday, nearly four years after India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France to procure 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force under a Rs 59,000-crore deal. Speaking on this to ETV Bharat, a former Air Force officer, Group Captain (Retd) Mahanta Panging wished a 'happy touch down' to Rafale. The veteran officer, who commanded SU-30 and SU-30 MKI squadrons, believes that Rafale's induction will boost the striking power of IAF to a great extent. Showing his excitement, Group Captain Mahanta said that he is ready to resume flying, if the government permits him, and wants to shoot down a Chinese aircraft.