IAF to light up sky over Jal Mahal today

Jaipur: Just over a month after Jaipur hosted India's first Army Day Parade held outside a cantonment, the city is set to witness another military marvel—Indian Air Force's Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and Sarang Helicopter Display Team—who will stage aerial displays over Jal Mahal on Friday and Sunday.The shows are scheduled from 1pm to 5pm on both days and the IAF has advised spectators to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Pilots from both teams briefed the media Thursday and said the displays are aimed to showcase IAF's precision and discipline while inspiring young people to consider a career in the armed forces. The combined contingent includes 14 pilots, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, a Su-30 MKI pilot, with Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh as deputy leader.Three pilots from Rajasthan said performing over Jal Mahal carries special significance to them as it is their home state. Wing Commander Rajesh Kajla said it would be a rare experience to fly the display in his home city. Wing Commander Ankit Vashisht from Jaipur said the event is notable for its low-altitude viewing, with manoeuvres expected as low as 300 feet and as high as 12,000 feet.The pilots said the display will highlight fighter-flying skills, with aircraft speeds ranging from 700 kmph to 1,400 kmph.Formed in 1996, the Suryakiran team—Asia's only nine-aircraft aerobatic team—will fly red-and-white Hawk Mk-132 jets, performing loops, barrel rolls, inverted passes and the signature "DNA" formation. Sarang team will fly indigenously built Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), featuring crowd-favourite formations including a heart pierced by an arrow and tricolour patterns.