IAF Surya Kiran team to perform at Meerut airshow

File photo of IAF’s Surya Kiran aerobatic team in action. File | Photo credit: K. Murali Kumar

The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) is scheduled to display its latest formation at the upcoming Meerut Airshow on September 19-20, 2026.

“Fresh from the successful completion of its 2026 training season, the Surya Kiran Acrobatic Team is all set to unveil its latest formation to the people of Meerut. The team will take to the skies with five new team members who will bring new energy and expertise to the formation, while continuing the exacting standards that have become synonymous with Surya Kiran,” SKAT said in a statement.

In nine distinctive red and white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, built in India under license from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the team will perform a sequence of thrilling aerobatic manoeuvres.

“From the graceful loop and exhilarating barrel movement to the inverted flying and the iconic DNA maneuver, each move is a spectacular display of precision, skill and seamless coordination. The aircraft flies in extremely close proximity, at a distance of less than five meters, so each maneuver is a testament to the exceptional flying skills, discipline and absolute confidence within the formation. Adding another remarkable dimension to the formation display of the M2 Hawk. modifications involving the integration of smoke of modules capable of producing colored smoke This modification, developed in India at the Indian Air Force Base Repair Depot, Nashik, enables the aircraft to paint the sky in the colors of the national flag – saffron, white and green,” the statement added.

Founded in 1996, SKAT is the only aerobatic team with nine aircraft in Asia and one of the few such teams in the world. He has enthralled audiences in over 800 performances across India and represented the IAF at international air shows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, UAE and Dubai. This is the first SKAT show in Meerut.

“In addition to this milestone, Squadron Leader Aman Goyal and Squadron Leader Rahul Singh, both from Meerut, will have a unique opportunity to perform in front of their hometown, with Squadron Leader Sharad Goel from Meerut as a member of the team. For the two pilots, flying over the city they call home will be a moment of immense pride, for Meerut it will be an extraordinary opportunity to see him as part of the Surya Kiran formation,” the statement further said.

For young aspirants who want a career in the armed forces, the Meerut exhibition will be an opportunity to experience the rich heritage of the IAF at close quarters, witness the professionalism and precision in action and interact with members of the aerobatic team, the statement said.

Published – 13 Sep 2026 23:13 IST