Rafale jet carrying Defence Minister Rajnath Singh landed after taking a sortie. It was being flown by Philippe Duchateau, head test pilot of Dassault Aviation. Post the official handover of first Rafale aircraft in Bordeaux city of France, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh performed ‘Shastra Puja’ on the Rafale jet. ‘Shastra Puja’ is worshipping of the weapon. Earlier, at the Rafale handover ceremony, Singh hailed the India-France relations, and called it a historic day for Indian forces. While speaking to media persons, he said, “By February 2021, we will get delivery of 18 Rafale aircraft and by April-May 2022 we will get all 36 aircraft. This is a part of our self-defence and not a sign of aggression against anyone. It is a deterrent.” Eric Trappier, the CEO of Dassault Aviation, the maker of Rafale aircraft, said, “It is a great day for Indian Air Force and India, also for France and Dassault Aviation. We did what was in the contract and now it is ready to fly. We are very proud.”
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