The opening session of the 13th edition of the biennial Aero India-2021, inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, was a treat for aviation enthusiasts.
From the much-anticipated Dassault Rafale to the evergreen Su-30MKI, some of the IAF's deadliest fighters were on display.
It was an Atma Nirbhar Bharat festival in many ways, with the indigenously developed Tejas-LCA, LCH and LUH helicopters, and an assortment of foreign-aircrfat that are made-in-India all on display. Besides the classic Surya Kiran aircraft performance, the Sukhoi, Rafale, Hawk were among the star attractions—with a guest appearance by the American B-1 Lancer.
For the B-1B, of the 28th Bomb Wing Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, this is a historic moment and marks the first time an American bomber has touched down in India in the history of the Republic, according to U.S. officials.
The B-1B Lancer carries the largest conventional payload of both guided and unguided weapons in the U.S. Air Force and is considered the backbone of Americas long-range bomber force, they said.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited came up with 'Atma-nirbhar Formation Flight' consisting its products such as LCA trainer (LIFT Trainer), HTT-40, IJT, Advanced Hawk Mk 132 and Civil Do-228 which flew in a special formation showcasing the spectrum of trainers and signifying self-sufficiency in the trainer segment.
There was a scintillating display of 'Dhanush' formation by the Light Combat Helicopters. Besides the flashy aircraft there was also one that is key to battlefield intelligence: Defence Research Development Organisation's (DRDO) Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&CS).
The jaw-dropping manoeuvres by the Surya Kiran light combat aircraft left the audience spellbound.
Opening the proceedings Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar addressed the gathering and said that India has taken a leap in organising a completely COVID compliant Aero and Defence exhibition. He expressed his gratitude to ambassadors and delegates from more than 55 nations who were in attendance. Shri Raj Kumar said that the large attendance at Aero India 2021 reflects positive temperament of people across the world and renewed global interest in the capabilities of India. He said that Aero India 2021 would provide a platform for exchange of ideas and forge partnerships in the aerospace and Defence sectors. He also provided a brief about the events to be organized during Aero India 2021, including the Chief of Air Staffs Conclave, the Bandhan ceremony and the India Pavilion.
With inputs from PTI