It was not your regular slow and sleep Sunday, but one marked by a swish and sparkle as the Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 93rd anniversary in grand style with a spectacular air show over the Brahmaputra River in Guwahati. The event, a blend of precision flying and patriotic fervour, drew thousands of spectators who lined up along the riverbanks to witness the breathtaking aerial manoeuvres.
The celebrations were graced by Assam Governor Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya as the Chief Guest, along with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, AOC-in-C Eastern Air Command Air Marshal Surat Singh, senior IAF officers, and top officials from the state government.
The air show embodied the IAF’s theme for the year – “Infallible, Impervious and Precise” – a tribute to the force’s unyielding commitment to national security and excellence.
IAF airshow in Guwahati: What made the flying display so spectacular?
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Lachit Ghat and the rolling waters of the Brahmaputra, the IAF’s aerial formations showcased the perfect blend of power, technology, and teamwork. The lineup featured the IAF’s finest aircraft, from fighter jets to transport planes and helicopters, reflecting the service’s multi-dimensional capabilities.
The thrilling display began with a flypast by Tejas, India’s indigenous light combat aircraft, symbolising self-reliance and innovation. It was followed by the Apache attack helicopters, C-295 transport aircraft, and Hawk trainers, each demonstrating precision flying and operational coordination.
Adding to the spectacle, the vintage Harvard, the formidable Sukhoi Su-30 MKI, and the Rafale fighter jets stunned the audience with low-level aerobatic manoeuvres, painting the Guwahati skies with trails of speed and power.
Who stole the show in the sky?
The event reached its crescendo with a synchronised aerial ballet by the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team. The Suryakirans, flying their Hawk aircraft in close formation, executed daring loops and heart-shaped patterns, while the Sarang team, piloting indigenously built Dhruv helicopters, mesmerised onlookers with gravity-defying spirals and crossovers.
Additionally, an aircraft formation was also dedicated to the success of Operation Sindoor. The aircrafts painted the sky in red colour, marking the operation while also paying tribute to the heroes behind the success.
IAF’s Guwahati flypast was more than just a visual treat. It was an emotional and inspirational experience. For the youth of the Northeast, the event became a moment of pride and motivation, offering a glimpse into the courage, precision, and discipline that define life in the Indian Air Force.
As the last formation disappeared beyond the horizon, the crowd stood in awe, their hearts filled with admiration for the men and women in blue who guard the nation’s skies.