New Delhi, May 23 (JKNS): The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), the premier aerobatic display team of the Indian Air Force, was formed in 1996 and is based at Air Force Station Bidar.
The team was raised with the aim of showcasing the professionalism, precision and operational excellence of the Indian Air Force through synchronized aerobatic displays.
SKAT initially flew the iconic Kiran Mk II aircraft, from which the team derived its name “Surya Kiran,” meaning “Rays of the Sun.” Over nearly two decades, the team performed numerous breathtaking displays across the country and became one of the most recognised symbols of the Indian Air Force.
In May 2006, the team was formally designated as 52 Squadron, “Sharks,” carrying forward the distinguished legacy of the earstwhile MiG-21 FL squadron.
In 2015, the team transitioned to the more advanced Hawk Mk-132 aircraft licenced produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited significantly enhancing its display capabilities with modern avionics, improved performance and smoke-generation systems. The induction of the Hawk aircraft marked a new era in the operational and display profile of the team.
Over the years, SKAT has conducted hundreds of aerial displays across India and abroad, representing the Indian Air Force at prestigious air shows, national celebrations and international aviation events. The team has performed in countries including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, China and the UAE, earning admiration for its precision flying and vibrant formations.
Some memorable milestones in the history of SKAT include, Participation in major editions of Aero India. Displays abroad in UAE, Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Srilanka , Myanmar and China. The spectacular aerial display over Chennai that drew an estimated audience of nearly 1.7 million spectators along the coastline. First ever aerial display over the Himalayas in 2026.
The squadron is presently commanded by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, an experienced Su-30 pilot with vast operational flying experience and a Qualified Flying Instructor. (JKNS)
