The Indian Air Force’s elite Sarang Helicopter Display Team is set to perform upgraded signature aerobatic manoeuvres using five helicopters instead of its earlier four-aircraft formation during the Passing Out Parade of the historic 150th course of the National Defence Academy in Pune.
The aerial display, scheduled over the iconic Sudan Block and Salaria Square, will also mark the graduation of the third batch of women cadets from the NDA.
Officials stated that the upgraded five-helicopter formation significantly increases the complexity, synchronisation, and precision required for the team’s trademark manoeuvres, including the diamond formation, crossover, and the iconic “Sarang Split.”
The Sarang team, widely regarded as the brand ambassadors of the Indian Air Force, has earned global recognition through more than 1,200 aerial displays across over 390 venues in India and abroad.
Speaking ahead of the performance, Squadron Leader Nishank Awasthi said the team began as an Advanced Light Helicopter evaluation flight in 2003 before being rechristened as Sarang in 2004. He noted that the Sanskrit word “Sarang” symbolises the grace and elegance of the peacock, reflecting the spirit of the team’s displays.
Squadron Leader Ajeet Singh highlighted that several new five-helicopter manoeuvres have been integrated into the display profile over the past few months, including the expanded diamond formation and upgraded crossover manoeuvre requiring pinpoint flying accuracy.
He added that the popular “Sarang Heart” manoeuvre and the concluding “Sarang Split” will now also be executed using the five-helicopter configuration.
Squadron Leader Nidarshana Sharma explained that pilots undergo a rigorous multi-stage selection and training process, including flying evaluations, written assessments, detailed mission recordings, and intensive debriefing sessions to maintain the highest safety and operational standards.
The team operates the indigenously developed HAL Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The all-weather, multi-mission capable helicopter reflects India’s growing aerospace capability and the vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
Officials stated that the upgraded Sarang display not only demonstrates exceptional flying skills and operational precision but also showcases India’s indigenous aviation excellence on a national and international stage.
