'Earthquake has rattled our neighbouring countries' - Manoj Tiwary after Rafale fighter jets enter Indian air space

Indian fans were ecstatic to see first five of a batch of French Rafale fighter jets entering the Indian airspace on Wednesday. INR 59,000-crore deal was signed on September 23, 2016, for 36 Rafale jets from French aerospace major Dassault Aviation. The remaining jets are slated to be delivered by 2022.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also confirmed the jets entering the Indian airspace as Twitter blew up with the news and photos of the historic moment. The five jets, after covering nearly 7000 km, finally touched down at Indian Air Force station at Ambala.

Ambala residents and all citizens across the country were delighted after seeing the first glimpse of the fighter jets. Considering the significance of the occasion, tight security was deployed around the Ambala Cantonment when the jets paved their way to the Indian airspace.

“The Birds have entered the Indian airspace…Happy Landing in Ambala!” tweeted Defence Ministry of India. The jets, piloted by IAF officers, made a stopover in the UAE, where France has an airbase, and eventually landed on the Indian soil on Wednesday.

I’m sure there’ll be no provocation from neighbours: Manoj Tiwary

With rising tensions with Pakistan and China, the jets are expected to considerably boost India’s air power and defence. Along with many fans sharing their joy and excitement over the news, Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary also expressed his delight after Rafale jets landed in India.

Tiwary, who represents Bengal in domestic cricket, pointed out that it will be a boost for the Indian Air Force, especially when the country’s relationship with the neighbouring countries has lately been stern. Tiwary even labelled the historic event as ‘earthquake’ for the neighbouring countries.

“Earthquake of magnitude 8.5 has rattled our neighbouring countries wit no casualties after learning about #RafaleJets landed in INDIA Flag of India. Wat a boost for our Indian air force Fisted hand. I’m pretty sure that, there will be no provocation in near future from our neighbours,” tweeted Tiwary along with a picture showing Rafale jets’ weaponry details.

34-year-old Tiwary was last seen on the field during Bengal’s Ranji final loss against Saurashtra this year. In 125 First-class games, the right-hander has scored 8965 runs at an impressive average of 50.36. He has also donned the Indian jersey in 12 ODIs and 3 T20Is, amassing 287 and 15 runs respectively.