Suryakiran Aerobatic Team takes to Meerut skies for the first time
The Indian Air Force's Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performed its first-ever air show in Meerut on September 19 and 20, 2026. Over one lakh spectators witnessed the nine red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft paint the sky in tricolour. Dignitaries including Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath attended the event.
Why It Matters
This is relevant for candidates preparing for defence-related current affairs and national events in competitive exams.
In Simple Words
The Indian Air Force's Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performed in Meerut for the first time on September 19 and 20, 2026. Over 1 lakh people watched the nine Hawk Mk 132 aircraft display formations and paint the sky in the tricolour.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth and UP Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath praised the team's precision and courage. SKAT, established in 1996, is Asia's only nine-aircraft aerobatic team and has completed over 800 shows globally.
Key Points
- The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performed in Meerut for the first time on September 19 and 20, 2026.
- Over 1 lakh people, including students, NCC cadets, and NSS volunteers, attended the show.
- Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth witnessed the show on September 20, 2026.
- SKAT has performed in over 800 airshows globally in its 30-year journey.
- The team flies nine red-and-white Hawk Mk 132 aircraft licence-manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
- SKAT was established in 1996 and is Asia's only nine-aircraft aerobatic team.
- Smoke pods producing coloured smoke were developed indigenously at the Indian Air Force's Base Repair Depot, Nashik.
- Three SKAT members, including two performing pilots, are from Meerut.
Exam Angle
𝕏 Official Update
A. 1996
Source: Press Information Bureau