IAF’s Suryakiran and Sarang Teams Inspire Jaipur Youth

Jaipur, February 2026 : The Indian Air Force’s brand ambassador teams — the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team — interacted with youth in Jaipur on Thursday, motivating them towards national service, discipline, and excellence. The interaction programme was held at the Bhagwat Singh Mehta Auditorium of the Harish Chandra Mathur Rajasthan State Institute of Public Administration (HCM RIPA). NCC cadets, school students, and hearing- and speech-impaired students participated enthusiastically.

Team members spoke about career opportunities in the Indian Air Force, the rigours of training, and the importance of teamwork and dedication. They also shared details of the grand air show scheduled for February 20 and 22 at Jal Mahal. The pilots said the event would offer Jaipur residents a memorable opportunity to witness the courage, precision, and discipline of the Indian Air Force up close.

Participants were informed that the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, established in 1996, is Asia’s only nine-aircraft aerobatic team and among a select few worldwide. Flying striking red-and-white Hawk Mk-132 jets, the team performs thrilling manoeuvres such as loops, barrel rolls, inverted flying, and the popular “DNA” formation. With over 800 displays so far, the team has showcased the professionalism of the Indian Air Force in countries including China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.

The team comprises 14 pilots, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, an experienced Su-30 MKI pilot, with Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh as Deputy Leader. A dedicated group of pilots and technical officers ensures flawless formation flying. Notably, three pilots — Wing Commander Rajesh Kajla, Wing Commander Ankit Vashisht, and Squadron Leader Sanjesh Singh — hail from Jaipur. Recently, indigenous smoke pods have been integrated into the aircraft, developed at the Air Force’s 11 Base Repair Depot in Nashik, enabling the team to paint the sky in the colours of the national flag during displays, reflecting the spirit of self-reliant India.

The programme also highlighted that the Sarang Helicopter Display Team is globally renowned for its colourful helicopters and precise formation flying. Since its first international appearance at the Asian Aerospace Show in Singapore in 2004, the team has performed over 1,200 displays at more than 390 locations worldwide.

Sarang operates the Dhruv helicopter, designed and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, an all-weather, multi-role platform that stands as a strong symbol of self-reliance. After practice sorties until February 20, a spectacular five-helicopter formation display over Jal Mahal on February 22 is set to thrill Jaipur residents.

The motto of both teams, “Sadaiva Sarvottam” (Always the Best), reflects values of excellence, discipline, and patriotism. The interaction not only inspired young participants but also offered a glimpse into the bravery and technical prowess of the Indian Air Force, with Jaipur’s skies set to echo this pride and enthusiasm on February 20 and 22.