The skies above Namkum Army Ground came alive with breathtaking colours and the spirit of bravery on Saturday as the Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force put on a stunning air show that left the people of Ranchi mesmerised.
The event was graced by the presence of Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, whose arrival drew an enthusiastic welcome from the crowd. Patriotic slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” echoed across the grounds as thousands of spectators witnessed a masterclass in precision flying.
The one-hour spectacle featured a series of jaw-dropping aerial stunts, daring low-altitude manoeuvres, and synchronised flying formations that demonstrated not only the immense skill of the pilots but also the excellence of the aircraft they flew.
A highlight of the performance came when the aircraft painted the sky with the colours of the national flag, drawing awe and applause from the crowd below. The Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team, established in 1996, is an elite unit of the IAF’s 52nd Squadron.
The team, which initially flew HAL-HJT-16 Kiran MK-2 trainer jets, now operates the advanced BAE Hawk MK 132 aircraft, known for their agility and precision. Over the years, SKAT has performed in more than 700 air shows across India and abroad, showcasing their talent in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, China, Singapore, and the UAE.
Most recently, the team gave a remarkable performance in Thailand before arriving in Ranchi. Despite nature’s challenge in the form of a rain and hailstorm on Friday, which caused partial damage to three of the nine jets, the team did not falter. Seth highlighted this point with pride, noting how the pilots, undeterred by the weather and battling strong winds, delivered a flawless show.
Their resilience and professionalism were on full display, earning admiration from both officials and citizens alike. Seth lauded the success of the event and welcomed the Air Chief Marshal to Jharkhand, calling it an honour for the state. He also shared that the Ranchi audience would get another opportunity to enjoy the spectacle, as the air show is scheduled to continue on Sunday.
The team will then head to Patna, Bihar, for their next performance on April 23. Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar also expressed his appreciation, commending the organisers for the grand success of the event and extending his congratulations for a truly memorable day.
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