New Delhi, September 20, 2026: Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja interacted with the Indian Air Force’s renowned Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, highlighting the critical role of aviation medicine, medical preparedness and physical fitness in supporting high-performance military flying.
During the interaction, Air Marshal Thareja appreciated the exceptional professionalism, precision and teamwork demonstrated by the Suryakiran team, which has completed three decades of displaying the Indian Air Force’s flying skills under its motto, “Sadaiva Sarvottam.”
The discussions focused on aeromedical aspects associated with high-performance flying, including the demanding physiological conditions experienced by pilots during complex aerial manoeuvres. Particular emphasis was placed on maintaining stringent standards of fitness and safety to ensure sustained operational readiness.
High-performance aerobatic flying places considerable physical and mental demands on aircrew, making aviation medicine an important component of flight safety and mission effectiveness. Medical preparedness and regular assessment of aircrew fitness play a key role in enabling pilots to perform demanding manoeuvres while maintaining the required safety standards.
The interaction also highlighted the wider role of the Armed Forces Medical Services in supporting personnel across the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
From troops operating on land and sailors deployed at sea to aircrew flying demanding missions, the AFMS provides medical support aimed at protecting personnel, strengthening human performance and maintaining the health and fitness of the Armed Forces.
The engagement with the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team underscored the close relationship between aviation medicine and operational flying, particularly in environments where precision, physical resilience, teamwork and rapid decision-making are essential.
The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is one of the Indian Air Force’s most prominent public-facing formations and is known for its coordinated formation flying and aerobatic displays. Its three-decade journey reflects the high standards of training, discipline and teamwork required for precision flying.
