DD Correspondent
Meerut: The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) enthralled spectators in Meerut with a spectacular aerial display, showcasing precision flying, coordination and the professionalism of the Indian Air Force.
Among the dignitaries who witnessed the show were Rajya Sabha MP Dr Laxmikant Bajpai, Uttar Pradesh Minister of State Shri Somendra Tomar, and Members of the Legislative Council Shri Ashwini Tyagi and Shri Dharmendra Bhardwaj.
Nine Hawk Aircraft Paint the Sky.
Fresh from the successful completion of its 2026 training season, SKAT unveiled its latest formation over Meerut, flying nine red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, licence-manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
The team performed a series of challenging aerobatic manoeuvres, including the loop, barrel roll, inverted flying and the iconic DNA manoeuvre, captivating spectators with displays of precision, skill and seamless coordination.
The aircraft fly in extremely close formation, maintaining a distance of less than five metres from each other. This demands exceptional flying skills, discipline and complete trust among the pilots.
Adding another visual dimension to the display, the Hawk Mk 132 aircraft feature indigenously developed smoke pods capable of producing coloured smoke. The modification, developed at the Indian Air Force’s Base Repair Depot, Nashik, enables the aircraft to create the colours of the national flag—saffron, white and green—across the sky.
Suryakiran: Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force
Established in 1996, SKAT is described as the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia and among the select few such teams in the world.
The team has conducted more than 800 displays across India and 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,” Suryakiran carries the spirit and legacy of the Service wherever it performs. Its displays highlight the values of precision, discipline, professionalism and dedication, while inspiring young people to consider careers in the Defence Forces.
