Suryakiran Aerobatic Team Makes Debut Over Meerut, Draws Over One Lakh Spectators
Nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft showcase precision aerobatics as SKAT takes to Meerut skies for the first time
By Antara Tripathy, IBG NEWS
Meerut, September 20, 2026: The skies over Meerut witnessed a spectacular display of aerial precision as the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force performed in the city for the first time on September 19 and 20.
More than one lakh people, including students, National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers, gathered over the two days to watch the aerobatic performances. Three members of the Suryakiran team, including two pilots who participated in the aerial manoeuvres, are from Meerut. (Akashvani News)
Defence Minister of State Witnesses Display
The second day of the event was witnessed by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, who highlighted the discipline, precision, teamwork and professionalism demonstrated by the aerobatic team.
Sanjay Seth also noted the team’s extensive record, with SKAT having completed more than 800 air displays in India and overseas during its three-decade journey. (Akashvani News)
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, commenting on the first day of the display, praised the pilots for their precision and courage and described the performance as a moment of pride for Uttar Pradesh and the country.
Other dignitaries attending the event included Rajya Sabha MP Dr Laxmikant Bajpai, Uttar Pradesh Minister of State Somendra Tomar, and Members of the Legislative Council Ashwini Tyagi and Dharmendra Bhardwaj.
Nine Hawk Aircraft Paint the Sky
Fresh from its 2026 training season, SKAT presented its latest formation over Meerut using nine red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft.
The aircraft, manufactured in India under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), were used for a series of demanding manoeuvres, including loops, barrel rolls, inverted flying and the distinctive DNA formation.
The aircraft operate at extremely close distances during formations, with the team describing separation of less than five metres as part of the demanding aerial displays.
Indigenous Smoke-System Modification Adds Tricolour Effect
A notable feature of the Meerut performance was the use of coloured smoke generated by specially integrated smoke pods.
The modification was developed in India at the Indian Air Force’s Base Repair Depot in Nashik, allowing the aircraft to produce saffron, white and green smoke during selected formations and create a visual representation of the national colours.
Three Decades of Suryakiran
Established in 1996, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team has developed into one of the Indian Air Force’s prominent public outreach formations. An official PIB release marking its 30th anniversary in May 2026 stated that the team had completed more than 800 air displays in India and abroad. (pib.gov.in)
SKAT has also represented India at international air shows in countries including China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and the UAE, showcasing Indian military aviation capabilities and aerobatic flying skills.
The team flies the Hawk Mk 132 and uses its displays to demonstrate coordinated flying, discipline, precision and professional airmanship while also encouraging young people to learn more about careers in the Armed Forces. (pib.gov.in)
The Meerut air display therefore combined an international-standard aerobatic spectacle with a public outreach programme, giving thousands of young spectators an opportunity to witness the capabilities and coordination of the Indian Air Force at close range.
About SKAT
Established in 1996, SKAT holds the distinction of being the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia and is among the select few such teams in the world. Having enthralled audiences with more than 800 displays across India and represented the professionalism of the Indian Air Force at international air shows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, the UAE and Dubai, Suryakiran has grown into far more than an aerobatic team. As the ‘Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force’, it carries the spirit of the Service wherever it flies, showcasing a rich legacy of excellence while inspiring the youth to aspire towards a career in the Defence Forces and offering them an opportunity to witness first-hand the professionalism, precision, discipline and dedication that define the Indian Air Force.
By Antara Tripathy
IBG NEWS
