Surya Kiran pilots light up Ranchi skyline

Ranchi: The Ranchi skyline transformed into a canvas of vibrant colours and precision aerobatics as the Indian Air Force's elite Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) performed at the Khoja Toli Army Ground on Saturday.

Led by Group Captain Ajay Dasrathi, Hawk aircrafts painted the sky with tricolour smoke trails. The 45-minute spectacle, which commenced at 9:30 am, was attended by Air Chief Marshal A P Singh and Union minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth.

The highlight of the show included the DNA formation executed by four aircraft, thrilling hide-and-seek manoeuvres of two jets, and theY-formation representing the nation's youth power.

Students waved Tricolours and cheered the pilots. Himangshu Mahato, a Class IX student of Purulia Sainik School, said, "Witnessing such a live show for the first time was a dream come true."

Citing the SKAT's shows, IAF officer Kanwal Sandhu said, "The team has conducted 700 air shows across 72 cities and countries, including Thailand, Singapore, Laos, China, over the past 27 years. These formations symbolise unity, bravery and vigilance."

Union minister Seth said, "The Surya Kiran air show was an extraordinary sight. The district administration and police deserve commendation for their arrangements. We hope this exposure will motivate students to consider careers in the armed forces and serve the nation."