Surya Kirans look for a new lease of life

For years, the Surya Kirans, Indian Air Force’s supremely talented bunch of stunt pilots with their aerobatic flying machines ruled the airshows. But an acute shortage of training aircraft grounded them. The last time Bengalureans had a glimpse of them was at Aero India 2011. Now, there is a rejuvenation of sorts on the cards.

Surely, they will not be seen in action at this air show. But, if reports are to believed, the Surya Kirans will spread their wings yet again. The induction of the British Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer into IAF has definitely helped matters.

The squadron is expected to restart flying displays within the next six to eight months. An official announcement to this effect is likely soon.

The Surya Kirans were formed in 1999 to be the ambassadors of IAF, and inspire youngsters to join the forces. In due course of time, the aerobatic squadron emerged as one of the three leading nine-aircraft public display aerobatic formations in the world. As fame spread, the team travelled far and wide, performing in airshows galore. But the reincarnation of the Surya Kirans could be with a new name, a new aircraft and a fresh colour scheme. The pilots will have to retrain themselves on the Hawk aircraft. The nine-aircraft formation could also see a change in the new avatar.
Now, for some Surya Kiran history. Besides performing at all Aero India shows till 2011, the aerobatic team has showcased its stunts at the International Fleet Review in Mumbai in February 2001. Under the leadership of Wing Commander Amit Tiwari, the Surya Kirans performed abroad for the first time in Colombo. The occasion was to mark the 50th Anniversary Celebrations of the Sri Lankan Air Force. In February 2004, the team led by Wing Commander S Prabahkaran was the cynosure of all eyes at the Asian Aerospace-2004 air show in Singapore.

The team has also performed at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA); Subang airfield of Kuala Lumpur; and along with the Royal Thai Air Force to mark the 80th birth anniversary of the king of Thailand.