Jammu: The atmosphere was filled with patriotism amidst the chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Howz The Josh’ as the Surya Kiran Team braving odd weather conditions thrilled thousands of spectators on Friday at the Air Show at Jammu Air Force Station.
The Surya Kiran Team of nine advanced jet trainer flying Hawk MK-132 aircraft of the Indian Air Force mesmerised and won the hearts of the people with their acrobatics formations in the sky.
The aircraft also showcased their combat capability at the Jammu Air Force Station.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was the special guest in the air show and was received by P K Vohra, AOC J&K and Air Commodore S S Rawat, AOC 23 Wing, AF at Air Force Station Jammu.
The event started with the National Anthem and salute by three MI-17 1V helicopters.
, which started with the national anthem at 9.30 am to commemorate 76 years of accession of J&K into the Indian Union and the Diamond Jubilee of Air Force Station Jammu.
Despite the bad weather, the Air Force pilots proved mettle by hovering flying machines in the sky that thrilled the spectators.
However, the Air Show that was scheduled to end at 11:30 am was cut short by 30 minutes because of rains and winds.
Many senior officers from the administration, army, security forces along with the Western Command of the Indian Air Force were also present at Jammu Air Force Station to witness the spectacular show, which was being organised nearly after 18 years in Jammu.
The Enthusiastic audience watched the display of low flying aircraft in Diamond, Tejas, Yankee, Aero and Thunderbolt formations during the Air Show and also captured the moments in their cell phones.
The residential areas surrounding the Technical Airport Jammu witnessed huge rush on the rooftops as people watched the amazing flying machines performing in the sky.
The young and the old were also motivated with the show and desired to become fighter plane pilots after watching the Surya Kiran team enthralled the audience.
Class fifth student of BSF School, Aadhan said that watching the air show was a thrilling experience for him.
“When I will grow up, I will try to join the Indian Air Force as I have really been motivated with the acts,” he said and hoped that such activities should be a regular feature to inspire and encourage the youth in contributing for nation building.
During the air show, the Akash Ganga team of the Air Force demonstrated stunts by para jumping under the leadership of Group Captain Kunwar Bhawani Singh while Garud Commandos demonstrated the actions taken during war and combat operations.
Tight security arrangements were made around the venue while traffic advisory was also issued for the general public.
The Indian Air Force, Government of UT of J&K, Department of Tourism and Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K combined organised a spectacular air show. IAF Air Warrior Drill Team (AWDT), Aakashganga Daredevil Skydiving Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), Mi-17 1V Helicopters and the Air Force Band participated in the marquee event.
The display was witnessed by the residents, students from various schools of Jammu, veterans, civil dignitaries and personnel of Defence Forces & CAPFs.
The event culminated with showcasing of precision drill movements by the Air Warrior Drill Team “Subroto” (AWDT).
The leader marching through spinning rifles was especially enthralling for the spectators. As the AWDT marched off, the children were especially thrilled and the cheer of the crowd was ear deafening. The entire event was supplemented by the melodious and martial tunes by the Air Force Band.
The display showcased the operational capability of the Indian Air Force with an aim to motivate youth to join the elite service. The event also aimed to sensitize the general public about the hazards for aviation and how they can assist in aviation safety.
Overall, the show was a resounding success and was an outcome of synchronized co-ordination between the Government of UT of J&K and Air Force Station Jammu.
