Suryakiran Aerobatic Team celebrates three decades of precision and aviation excellence
NEW DELHI, May 23 — The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, the premier aerobatic display team of the Indian Air Force, is marking three decades of showcasing the professionalism, precision, and operational excellence of the nation’s air power.
Formed in 1996 and based at Air Force Station Bidar, the team initially flew the iconic Kiran Mk II aircraft, which inspired its name meaning “Rays of the Sun.” Over nearly two decades, these initial aircraft became a recognized symbol of the Indian Air Force before the team was formally designated as 52 Squadron, known as the Sharks, in May 2006 to carry forward the legacy of a former MiG-21 FL squadron.
The team entered a new era of display capabilities in 2015 when it transitioned to the advanced Hawk Mk-132 aircraft, which are license-produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.This upgrade significantly enhanced their performance with modern avionics and advanced smoke-generation systems.
Over the years, the squadron has conducted hundreds of aerial displays across India and internationally, representing the nation at major celebrations and prestigious aviation events in countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, China, and the United Arab Emirates.
Among its most memorable milestones, the team has been a mainstay at major editions of Aero India and famously drew an estimated audience of nearly 1.7 million spectators during a spectacular aerial display along the coastline of Chennai.
Most recently, the squadron accomplished its first-ever aerial display over the Himalayas in 2026. The squadron is currently commanded by Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi, an experienced Su-30 pilot and qualified flying instructor with vast operational flying experience.