IAF’s Surya Kiran team to perform at Meerut airshow
From the graceful loop and thrilling barrel roll to inverted flying and the iconic DNA manoeuvre, every movement is a spectacular demonstration of precision, skill and seamless coordination, SKAT says in a statement
The Indian Air Force's (IAF) Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) will be performing at the upcoming airshow in Meerut on September 19 and 20, 2026. Following the successful completion of their 2026 training season, the team is excited to unveil their latest formation for the avid spectators of Meerut. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team will be piloting nine distinctive red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft, manufactured in India under a license by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Each aircraft will showcase a sequence of breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers, from graceful loops and thrilling barrel rolls to inverted flying and the iconic DNA manoeuvre. These precise and coordinated maneuvers demonstrate the exceptional flying skills, discipline, and absolute trust within the formation, with the aircraft flying at a distance of less than five meters from each other.
In addition to these remarkable displays, the Hawk Mk 132 aircraft have been upgraded with smoke pods that can produce colored smoke, enabling the planes to paint the sky in the colors of the national flag - saffron, white, and green. Established in 1996, SKAT is the only nine-aircraft aerobatic team in Asia and one of the select few such teams in the world.
With over 800 performances across India and international appearances in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, the UAE, and Dubai, the team is eager to make history by performing in Meerut for the very first time. Among the team members, Squadron Leader Aman Goyal and Squadron Leader Rahul Singh, both hailing from Meerut, will have the unique opportunity to perform before their hometown.
Additionally, Squadron Leader Sharad Goel, also from Meerut, will be a team member, making this performance a moment of immense pride for the citizens of Meerut. The display will provide young aspirants with an opportunity to experience the rich IAF legacy up close, observe professionalism and precision in action, and interact with the members of the aerobatic team.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
