Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 11: The Indian Air Force’s famed Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team is set to stage a spectacular aerial performance over the historic Somnath Temple on Monday as part of the shrine’s 75th anniversary celebrations.
The aerobatic display, scheduled for 11 a.m., will feature six Hawk Mk-132 fighter trainer aircraft performing synchronized formations and precision manoeuvres in the skies above Prabhas Patan. The event will take place in the presence of the Prime Minister and forms a major highlight of the ongoing ‘Somnath Amritparva-2026’ celebrations at the revered first Jyotirlinga temple.
According to Wing Commander Janmeet Sharma, the aircraft will execute a carefully planned series of aerial formations showcasing the skill, coordination and discipline of the Indian Air Force’s elite aerobatic squadron.
Known as the “Ambassadors of the Indian Air Force,” the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team has earned global recognition for its precision flying and synchronized performances. Since its formation in 1996, the team has conducted more than 800 air shows across India and several countries including China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.
The team operates the indigenously manufactured Hawk Mk-132 aircraft built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. During performances, the jets often fly with less than five metres of separation, demanding exceptional coordination and advanced flying expertise from the pilots.
The current squadron includes 13 highly trained pilots and is led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, an experienced Su-30 MKI pilot. Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh serves as the deputy leader of the team. Operating under the motto “Sadaiva Sarvottam” — meaning “Always the Best” — the squadron emphasizes precision, professionalism and continuous training.
Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu, who serves as the team commentator, said the Somnath event would mark the first-ever aerial aerobatic showcase above the temple complex. She noted that the Hawk aircraft used for pilot training are also capable of combat deployment and can operate effectively during emergencies, wartime situations and difficult terrain conditions.
The aircraft are expected to fly at speeds between 800 and 900 kilometres per hour during the demonstration. The performance will begin with all six jets taking off together before splitting into multiple formations to execute complex aerial patterns and synchronized manoeuvres.
Ground coordination for the event will be handled by Squadron Leader Aman Goyal, who will provide real-time updates to pilots regarding wind conditions, aircraft positioning and operational safety.
Authorities have also implemented special safety measures to minimize bird hazards during the air show. Bird Hazard Control teams will remain deployed throughout the event, while local residents have been advised not to discard food waste in open areas to reduce bird activity near the flight path. If necessary, the team may also use non-harmful noise-based deterrent firecrackers to keep birds away from the operational zone.
Adding a patriotic visual element to the display, the Hawk aircraft have recently been equipped with indigenous coloured smoke pods developed at the Indian Air Force’s Base Repair Depot in Nashik. These systems allow the jets to release saffron, white and green smoke trails, creating tricolour patterns symbolizing the Indian National Flag across the sky.