MEERUT, SEPT 20: The Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) made its maiden appearance over Meerut on September 19 and 20, enthralling more than one lakh spectators with a spectacular display of precision aerobatics and aerial formations.
The two-day air show witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, besides thousands of residents who gathered to watch the nine-aircraft formation paint the Meerut skies with breathtaking manoeuvres.
Flying the distinctive red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, the team showcased a series of demanding aerial manoeuvres, including loops, barrel rolls, inverted flying and the iconic DNA formation. The aircraft flew in extremely close proximity, at distances of less than five metres, highlighting the exceptional flying skills, discipline, coordination and mutual trust required for such performances.
The event also carried a strong local connection, with three members of the Suryakiran team, including two pilots who participated in the aerobatic display, belonging to Meerut.
The September 20 performance was witnessed by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, who described the display as a remarkable demonstration of discipline, precision, teamwork and professionalism and a reflection of the capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
Seth also highlighted SKAT’s three-decade journey since its establishment in 1996, during which the team has performed in more than 800 air shows in India and abroad.
On the first day of the display, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the precision and courage of the SKAT pilots, describing their performance in the colours of the Tricolour as a proud and inspiring moment for Uttar Pradesh and the nation.
Rajya Sabha MP Dr Laxmikant Bajpai, Uttar Pradesh Minister of State Somendra Tomar and Legislative Council members Ashwini Tyagi and Dharmendra Bhardwaj were among the other dignitaries who witnessed the spectacular show.
Fresh from the successful completion of its 2026 training season, SKAT unveiled its latest formation before the people of Meerut. The Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, licence-manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), have undergone an indigenous modification involving the integration of smoke pods capable of producing coloured smoke.
The modification was developed in India at the Indian Air Force’s Base Repair Depot, Nashik, enabling the aircraft to produce saffron, white and green smoke and create the colours of the national flag across the sky.
Established in 1996, Suryakiran is Asia’s only nine-aircraft aerobatic team and among the select few such formations in the world. Having completed more than 800 displays, the team has represented the Indian Air Force at international air shows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, the UAE and Dubai.
Known as the “Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force,” SKAT carries the spirit of the Service across the country and abroad, showcasing precision, discipline, teamwork and dedication while inspiring young people to consider a career in the Defence Forces.
