Air Vice Marshal Hilal Ahmed, the first Indian to fly the Rafale fighter jet, has become a prominent figure in India’s military history.

A Kashmiri Muslim from Anantnag, Ahmed has had a distinguished career in the Indian Air Force (IAF), amassing over 3,000 accident-free flying hours. His expertise with various aircraft, including the Mirage 2000 and MiG-21, paved the way for him to take the helm as the first Indian to fly the Rafale jet.

As the IAF’s Air Attaché to France, Ahmed was instrumental in overseeing the delivery and weaponization of the Rafale jets. His efforts ensured the fighter aircraft met the operational needs of India, marking a crucial step in strengthening the country’s defense capabilities. Ahmed even flew the Rafales from France to India, playing a central role in the historic acquisition.

While his involvement in the Rafale program is well-documented, Ahmed's contributions extend beyond the airframe. His leadership has helped modernize India's air force, making it more capable of facing contemporary challenges.

Though his name is not directly linked to the operational details of the recent Operation Sindoor, launched on Wednesday in response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, his position as a key figure in India’s military infrastructure has undoubtedly contributed to the nation’s readiness.

The ongoing Operation Sindoor underscores the strategic importance of advanced military technology, including the Rafale jets, in securing national interests. As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, the IAF continues to rely on leaders like Hilal Ahmed to ensure the country's defense remains robust and capable of facing evolving threats.