Varanasi: The skies over Varanasi reverberated with the roar of fighter jets on Thursday as the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched its first-ever aerial display over the Ganga under the theme Wings Over Ganga. The spectacular event showcased India’s air power, advanced military capabilities and the exceptional skills of its pilots, drawing large crowds to the city’s ghats.
Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Mirage-2000 and Tejas fighter aircraft thrilled spectators with high-speed manoeuvres, sharp turns and breathtaking aerobatic displays over the river. The aircraft demonstrated their agility, precision and the pilots’ ability to maintain control during demanding aerial manoeuvres.
The Rafale’s performance emerged as a major attraction, with sharp turns, rapid changes in direction and manoeuvres at varying altitudes keeping spectators captivated. The Sukhoi-30MKI and other fighter jets also drew enthusiastic applause as they showcased their flying capabilities against the backdrop of the Ganga.
Chinook and Special Forces Add to the Spectacle
Helicopter displays added another dimension to the event. A demonstration involving the Chinook helicopter and the deployment of personnel over the Ganga attracted particular attention. The participation of the IAF’s Garud special forces further highlighted the operational capabilities and preparedness of India’s air warriors.
The aerial programme featured approximately 100 aircraft, including 52 fighter jets, 15 transport aircraft, 32 helicopters and a historic aircraft. Operating from 12 air bases across the country, including the naval air station at Arakkonam near Chennai, the aircraft participated in 25 formations showcasing coordination, flying precision and operational versatility.
The fighter aircraft on display included the Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Mirage-2000, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), MiG-29 and Jaguar. The helicopter fleet featured the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Chinook, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mark III and Mark IV, Apache, Chetak, Ka-31 and Mi-17 V5.
Transport and support aircraft included the C-295, C-17, C-130, Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, IL-78, AN-32 and P-8I. The Surya Kiran aerobatic team, the Sarang helicopter display team and the vintage Harvard aircraft were among the other highlights. Two ALH helicopters from the Indian Army, along with a P-8I aircraft and a Ka-31 helicopter from the Indian Navy, also participated.
Prachand Formation Highlights Combat Readiness
The Prachand formation underscored the armed forces’ operational preparedness and the role of air power in supporting national objectives. The display highlighted the coordination and capabilities required to execute demanding missions.
The Wings Over Ganga air show is scheduled to continue on October 24 and 25, following its opening on October 22. The event offers residents and tourists an opportunity to witness the capabilities of the Indian Air Force in the distinctive setting of Varanasi’s historic riverfront.
With fighter jets roaring overhead, helicopters performing precision manoeuvres and aerobatic teams painting patterns across the sky, the spectacle has brought a rare aerial experience to the spiritual city of Kashi.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=RtToJsBhYBatUrym&v=mOuYNSdhjHA&feature=youtu.be
