Bangalore: Surya Kiran, the formation aerobatic team of the Indian Air Force (IAF), is undoubtedly one of the very few nine-aircraft aerobatic teams in the world. The "Big Nine", as they are commonly called, have some of the best fighter pilots showcasing the skills of the IAF.

It all began with the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the IAF when, in 1982, pilots chosen from several fighter squadrons were brought together to form the first IAF aerobatic team. They were then called the "Thunderbolts". The team used to fly the Hunters. The Thunderbolts gave their last public display in 1989 after which it was re-christened as Surya Kiran, meaning Rays of the Sun.

Surya Kiran started as a six-aircraft team that flies the indigenously built Kiran Mk II aircraft. Today, they have grown into a fascinating nine-aircraft team performing impressive intricacies with displays in India and Sri Lanka. The team aims to showcase the IAF's capabilities and professionalism besides generating interest among the Indian youth about Indian Air Force.

Hand picked pilots from several fighter squadrons under the IAF are given rigorous training to perform together in unison. The team includes a group of highly skilled, motivated and professional technicians, who ensure that the 'metallic birds' are fully ready to perform breathtaking manoeuvres. Hard work, dedication, discipline and efficiency are the key words of this team.

During the display, the nine aircraft (in batches of three) rolled on the runway for a perfect synchronised take-off with the last three emitting Indian flag coloured smoke much to the delight of the large crowd. Immediately after the take-off all the nine aircraft closed-in into a diamond-shaped formation. They took a turn to their right and flew past the audience in perfect pattern taking a steep vertical lift-off and then roared down to thunderous applause of the spectators watching below.

The coloured smoke left the entire sky painted with the colours of the Indian tri-colour. They continued to show their amazing skills by displaying Tango, Shockwave, Columbia, Wineglass and several other wonderful formations, while the awe-struck audience on the ground enjoyed every second of the show.

The most amazing display was when two aircraft flying at 600 kmph approached each other for a head-on criss-cross and then took-off for a synchronised medley. However, the icing on the cake was the formation of a heart by two Surya Kirans and another piercing an arrow through it, when the overjoyed crowd arose in unison to give the team a standing ovation.

The Surya Kirans are based at Bidar in Karnataka, headed by air commodore Ajit Singh VSM. The station basically serves the team in its technical, logistical and administrational requirements. Wing Commander S Prabhakaran, the present commanding officer leads the command, while squadron leader V Bhatt controls all aspects of the teams operations.