PM Modi Praises IAF Suryakiran Team After Somnath Air Show

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised the Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team after a grand air show over the Somnath Temple during the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav celebrations in Gujarat.

The event marked 75 years since the reconstruction of the revered Somnath Temple. PM Modi described the spectacle as a remarkable blend of devotion, courage and national pride.

Sharing glimpses of the event on X, the Prime Minister wrote, “In Somnath today, the skies witnessed a magnificent confluence of pride and valour. The Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Team showcased a breathtaking flypast. This spirit of Bhakti and Shakti filled every heart with deep joy.”

The aerial performance unfolded above the temple town and the Arabian Sea coastline. The Indian Air Force’s premier aerobatic squad executed synchronised manoeuvres and close-formation flying using Hawk Mk-132 aircraft.

Officials confirmed that six Hawk Mk-132 aircraft participated in the demonstration before thousands of spectators gathered around the temple precincts and nearby areas.

The aircraft released saffron, white and green smoke trails using indigenous coloured smoke pods developed at the Air Force Base Repair Depot in Nashik.

The vibrant display recreated the Indian Tricolour across the skies.

An Indian Air Force Chetak helicopter also showered flower petals over the temple complex during the religious ceremonies.

Earlier, Prime Minister Modi participated in sacred rituals, including Kumbhabhishek, Dhwaj Puja and Maha Puja.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, saints, ministers, temple trustees and senior officials also attended the commemorative programme.

Wing Commander Janmeet Sharma stated that the 15-minute showcase highlighted exceptional pilot coordination and precision flying skills.

Established in 1996, the Surya Kiran team has conducted over 800 aerial displays globally.

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