Suryakiran Aerobatic Team of the Indian Air Force [Photo / xinhuanet.com]

The Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) was formed in 1996 and carries the responsibility to serve as the Indian Air Force’s ambassadors as well as demonstrate the service’s excellence and professionalism. The team has performed numerous demonstration flights across the country and abroad.

The nine-aircraft team performed its maiden show at Airshow China in 2008 with a formation of Kiran MK II trainer aircraft, which were used to train fighter pilots in basic flying maneuvers and weapon delivery.