Indian Air Force Gears Up for a Spectacular Airshow at Chennai's Marina Beach
The event will be held at Chennai's iconic Marina Beach, where over a million spectators are anticipated to gather
Airforce Show
After three flawless rehearsals this week, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is fully prepared to captivate the people of Chennai with a grand airshow on Sunday, October 6, between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM (local time). The spectacle will feature 72 aircraft, promising an unforgettable experience.
The event will take place at Chennai's iconic Marina Beach, where over a million spectators are expected to gather. Returning to Chennai after a two-decade hiatus, the airshow promises a stellar lineup designed to mesmerise the audience at Marina Beach.
Sunday's airshow is part of the Indian Air Force's 92nd-anniversary celebrations. After the public air display, a private IAF Day parade will take place on Tuesday, October 8, at Air Force Station Tambaram, located on the outskirts of Chennai.
Over the past two years, the Raising Day of India's tri-services has been celebrated in various cities across the country, aiming to showcase the valour, strength, and capabilities of the Indian armed forces while inspiring the next generation to pursue a career in national service. Notably, two Chennaiites will be among the aviators participating in Sunday's airshow.
A Unique Blend of Russian and Western Aircraft
A total of 72 aircraft will participate in the airshow, including fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, aerobatic display teams, and vintage aircraft. What sets Indian Air Force airshows apart is the rare combination of both Western and Russian-origin aircraft. Sunday's show will feature the French-made Rafale, Mirage-2000, Airbus C295MW, the Russian Sukhoi-30 MKI and MiG-29 fighters, IL-78 MD refuelling tankers, the European SEPECAT Jaguar strike aircraft, and the American C-17 Globemaster III and P-8I Poseidon anti-submarine warfare aircraft. Vintage planes like the Dakota and Harvard will also make an appearance.
Interestingly, the Indian Air Force is the largest operator of the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30, with more than 260 in service. The Su-30MKI, India's version of the aircraft, is regarded as the backbone of the IAF's fighter fleet. Weighing 39 tons when fully loaded, the Sukhoi-30, also known as the 'Flanker,' is the world's largest operational fighter jet.
India’s Indigenous Marvels - Tejas and Prachand
The airshow will also feature homegrown aircraft, including the indigenously developed Tejas, the world's lightest fighter jet, and the Prachand, the world's highest-flying combat helicopter. These platforms reflect India's growing prowess in defence manufacturing. The Indian government has set an ambitious goal to exceed $5 billion in defence exports by 2025, up from the current $2.63 billion, based on the export potential of its indigenous defence ecosystem.
IAF’s Brand Ambassadors - Sarang and Suryakiran
Among the metallic grey jets, two aerobatic teams will stand out with their vibrant red-painted aircraft. The Suryakiran (Rays of the Sun) Aerobatic Team will perform in BAE Hawk Mk132 jets, while the Sarang (Peacock) Helicopter Display Team will fly Dhruv helicopters. Both teams are the brand ambassadors of the IAF, known for thrilling audiences at international airshows with their daring manoeuvres and high-proximity stunts. The Suryakiran team consists of nine aircraft, while the Sarang team flies five helicopters, filling the sky with vibrant hues as they perform.
Flying Formations - A Tribute to Tamil Nadu
As various aircraft soar over Marina Beach, their formations will pay tribute to Tamil Nadu’s rich history, culture, and geography. Each formation is named after a unique aspect of the state, including Puyal (storm), Sangam, Pallava, Chera, Chola, Kanchi, Natraj, Nilgiri, Marina, Pandian, and Mahabali. These formations will add a local touch to the spectacle, honouring the legacy of Tamil Nadu while displaying the might of the Indian Air Force.
