Pramesh S Jain
T
he majestic city of Bengaluru is all set to witness a breath taking spectacle in the skies.From 10-14th February,the skies over Bengaluru will come alive as the prestigious Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performs an extraordinary air show,promising to leave spectators in awe.
The SKAT,better known as the “Ambassadors of the IAF,” is renowned for its precision,skill,and teamwork.This elite team, flying the striking red-and-white Hawk Mk-132 jets,will showcase a series of jaw-dropping manoeuvres.
From the graceful loop and the thrilling barrel roll to the gravity-defying inverted flying and the crowd- favourite DNA manoeuvre,every performance is a testament to the pilots’ unmatched expertise and coordination.
SKAT was established in the year 1996.The team holds the coveted title of being the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia,and is one of the elite few aerobatic teams in the world.
This exceptional team has performed over 700 displays across India,while also representing the professionalism of the IAF at international air shows in countries such as China,Sri Lanka,Myanmar,Thailand,Singapore,and the UAE.
Surya Kiran team comprises 9 Hawk Mk 132 aircraft license manufactured in India flying in extremely close proximity at a distance of less than 5 meters.
There are 14 pilots in the team.The team leader is Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, a Su-30 MKI pilot.The Deputy Leader is Group Captain Sidhesh Kartik.
The other pilots are Squadron Leader Jasdeep Singh, Squadron Leader Himkhush Chandel, Squadron Leader Ankit Vashisth,Squadron Leader Vishnu,Squadron Leader Diwakar Sharma,Squadron Leader Gaurav Patel, Squadron Leader Edward Prince,Squadron Leader Lalit Verma,Wing Commander Rajesh Kajla,Wing Commander Arjun Patel who is a native of Bengaluru,Wing Commander Kuldeep Hooda and Wing Commander Allen George.
Their technical team is led by Wing Commander Abhimanyu Tyadi, Squadron leader Sandeep Dhayal and Flight Lieutenant Manil Sharma.
The team’s commentator and administrator is Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu and the team’s doctor is Squadron Leader Sudharshan.
All members live by the team’s motto “Sadaiva Sarvottam” meaning Always the Best! SKAT embodies the spirit of excellence.
The pilots undergo intensive training to master complex aerobatic manoeuvres,with their expertise and flawless coordination forming the foundation of the close formation flying.
The recent integration of smoke pods with the Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, capable of producing colored smoke,is a significant indigenous modification developed in India at an IAF’s Base and allows the team to display the three colors of the national flag across the sky during their aerial performances.
This enhancement not only adds visual impact to the displays but also serves as a powerful symbol of national pride,celebrating India’s achievements in aerospace engineering and innovation.
The residents of Bengaluru and visitors alike can look forward to this rare treat as the skies transform into a canvas of spectacular formations,celebrating the spirit of teamwork,discipline and excellence that defines the IAF.
So mark your calendars for this thrilling event and join us in witnessing the marvel of Suryakiran-a show that will remain etched in your hearts for years to come!
For more information and all the latest updates,follow the team on social media on Instagram (@suryakiran_iaf), X(@Suryakiran_IAF) and Facebook (@Suryakiran Aerobatic Team) and Youtube (@Suryakiran_IndianAirForce).
