The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Monday, May 11, debuted its Suryakiran Air Show as a part of Somnath Amrut Mahotsav celebrations at the Somnath Temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads up to become a witness to the airshow on the 75th anniversary of the Somnath Temple.
The aerial display was performed by IAF's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) in the skies above the Somnath Temple. The aerobatic show features six Hawk Mk-132 aircraft forming aerobatic formations above the historic temple complex.
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The display forms part of the broader ‘Somnath Amritparva-2026’ commemorations being held at the first Jyotirlinga shrine.
The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team created a heart shape in the sky above the Somnath Temple premises. During their performances, the jets fly in extremely close formation, at times maintaining separation of less than five metres, requiring high levels of coordination and pilot expertise.
The team is globally recognised for its synchronised displays and has conducted more than 800 performances across India and abroad, including in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.
PM Narendra Modi in post on X said, "At Somnath, one can experience Bhakti in every corner. Countless people have come together to mark 75 years since the rebuilt Temple opened its doors to devotees. That day was indeed a milestone in the civilisational journey of Bharat."