Bhavnagar: The Indian Air Force (IAF) Suryakiran Aerobatic Team performed an exciting 40-minute air show over Bor Talav, also known as Gaurishankar Lake, in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, on November 1, 2026. Nine Hawk Mk-132 aircraft displayed impressive flying skills, colourful smoke trails and perfectly coordinated aerial formations, attracting large crowds.
The event marked the first-ever aerobatic display by the Indian Air Force in Bhavnagar. It highlighted the flying skills, discipline and teamwork of India’s military pilots.
Suryakiran Air Show: Nine Hawk Mk-132 Jets Perform Stunning Aerial Manoeuvres
Nine red-and-white Hawk Mk-132 aircraft took part in the aerial performance. The pilots performed several challenging manoeuvres while flying close to each other.
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The 30 to 40-minute display included close formation flying, wingtip-to-wingtip sequences, loops, rolls and inverted flying.
The aircraft also released saffron, white and green smoke trails across the sky. These colours represented the Indian national flag and created an impressive visual display for spectators.
A large number of people gathered around Bor Talav and other viewing locations across Bhavnagar to watch the performance.
About Suryakiran Aerobatic Team
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) was established in 1996. It is recognised as Asia’s only nine-aircraft aerobatic formation team.
The team has performed more than 800 aerial displays in India and abroad. It represents the Indian Air Force’s flying skills and professional standards during public events.
The team operates Hawk Mk-132 aircraft manufactured under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Its motto is “Sadaiva Sarvottam”, which means “Always the Best“. This motto reflects the team’s focus on precision, discipline and coordination.
Suryakiran Air Show: Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi Commands The Team
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is commanded by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi. Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh serves as its Flight Commander.
The Bhavnagar performance involved 13 pilots, supported by technical and operational personnel. Their coordinated efforts helped deliver a successful aerial display involving several complex flying formations.
Air Show Also Promotes Indian Air Force Careers
The Bhavnagar event was jointly organised by the Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation and the district administration. Entry was free for the public.
Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Nimuben Bambhaniya, attended the event as the chief guest.
Air Vice Marshal GS Bhullar, Senior Officer Administration at Headquarters South Western Air Command, Gandhinagar, was also among the special guests.
The programme included several activities to introduce young people to the Indian Armed Forces.
An Indian Air Force motivational stall provided information about career opportunities, selection procedures and life in the Air Force.
Visitors also experienced an air simulator, which gave them an opportunity to understand basic aircraft controls and flying procedures.
The Air Force Band of Headquarters South Western Air Command performed patriotic songs, martial tunes and ceremonial music during the event.
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FAQs
The Suryakiran air show took place over Bor Talav, also known as Gaurishankar Lake, in Bhavnagar, Gujarat.
Nine Hawk Mk-132 aircraft from the Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team participated in the Bhavnagar air show on November 1, 2026.
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is famous for its precision flying, close aircraft formations and colourful aerial displays. Established in 1996, it is recognised as Asia’s only nine-aircraft aerobatic formation.
