A breathtaking air show by the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) at the picturesque Umiam Lake left spectators thrilled today.
Along with SKAT’s aircraft, Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, Rafale and Chetak/Cheetah helicopters also performed.
Meghalaya Governor Phagu Chauhan was the chief guest and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma was also present along with civil and military dignitaries, students and members of the public.
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 IAF at air shows in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.
Sangma lauded the IAF for the scintillating performance and added that he is proud and grateful to the armed forces for their service to the nation.
“This may be one of the first times that I have actually sat through a live air show like this and I was completely blown away. I congratulate the entire team of the Surya Kiran that has given us a wonderful air show,” he said.
One of the drivers of having the air show here is to encourage locals to join the military. The CM said that all branches are reaching out to Meghalaya’s youth through consistent efforts at the grassroots.
This was the fifth display cycle of SKAT in the North East. The team has covered Bagdogra, Jorhat, Chabua, Itanagar, Tezpur and are now in Shillong and this is the end of their display cycle.
The hilly terrain of the North East is a bit of a challenge as SKAT trains on more flat terrain. Extensive reconnaissance is required before the team performs in hilly areas like in Meghalaya.
