NEW DELHI, September 06 (H.S.): The Indian Air Force’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team has arrived in Egypt to participate in the Al Alamein International Airshow.

India’s Sarang team, the world’s only five-helicopter aerobatic display team, will showcase its precision, professionalism and flying skills through a series of choreographed aerial manoeuvres during the airshow, scheduled to be held from September 8 to 10. The team’s participation marks another significant milestone in the Indian Air Force’s international engagements and reflects the growing defence and diplomatic ties between India and Egypt.

Flying the indigenously designed and manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, the Sarang team is renowned for its challenging formation manoeuvres, close-formation flying and synchronised aerial sequences. The display not only demonstrates the exceptional skills and discipline of its pilots but also highlights the capabilities of India’s indigenous aerospace industry.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the Sarang team will perform its signature “Dolphin Leap” manoeuvre and introduce a new manoeuvre called the “Spot Stall Turn” at the airshow.

The team’s participation in the international airshow will provide audiences and aviation enthusiasts from around the world with an opportunity to witness the versatility and agility of the ALH Dhruv. The Al Alamein International Airshow will bring together major air forces from across the world, along with professionals from the aerospace, defence and space sectors.

Sarang’s aerial display over Egyptian skies will add a distinctive dimension to the event while also strengthening the team’s ties with other international aerobatic display teams.

The Indian Air Force’s aerobatic helicopter display team officially operates five modified HAL Dhruv helicopters and was formally established in 2005 as 151 Helicopter Unit. The team is headquartered at Sulur Air Force Station near Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu.

The team made its first public appearance at the Asian Aerospace Show in Singapore in 2004. Since then, it has performed at Aero India, the biennial defence airshow and exhibition, Air Force Day celebrations, Navy Week events and several other occasions of national importance.

In February 2024, the team performed at the Singapore Airshow, marking its second overseas appearance and its first international performance since its inaugural display in 2004.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar