The skies over Umiam Lake were painted red on 08 March 2024, as the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performed over the Umiam Lake. The team put up a scintillating display of precision flying, demonstrating the skills, professionalism and capabilities of IAF pilots enthralling the spectators. The Aerobatic Air Display by the IAF’s famous nine-aircraft Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team projected professionalism and precision – the two hallmarks of the IAF.
Along with SKAT, Sukhoi-30 MKI, Rafale and Chetak/ Cheetah Helicopters also performed during the Air Show. The Governor of Meghalaya, Phagu Chauhan , Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma, along with several civil and military dignitaries, students and members of the public witnessed the event.
The Indian Air Force’s renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) was formed in 1996 and is among the very few nine-aircraft aerobatics teams in the world, and the only one in Asia. This one of a kind team has carried out more than 500 displays in India, besides showcasing the professionalism of the Indian Air force in Air Shows abroad at China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and UAE.
Speaking on the occasion , Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma said thanked the Indian Air Force for the scintillating performance and added that he is proud and grateful to the Armed Forces for their service to the Nation.
The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, popularly known as SKAT, inherits the motto “Sadaiva Sarvottam” with ease, aptly describing the adage “Always the Best”. This event not only showcased the extraordinary skills of the pilots but also provided an opportunity for the public to witness the dedication and excellence of the Indian Air Force. The Air Show was organised as part of the IAF’s outreach programme and to spread awareness about the Armed Forces and to inspire the youth of the country to join the Armed Forces.
(Source: Wing Commander Sreeprakash J, PRO Defence , Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura)