The skies over Guwahati came alive on Sunday as the Indian Air Force (IAF) staged a spectacular air show at Lachit Ghat to mark its 93rd anniversary, making it the first-ever full-scale air show held in the Northeast region. The event marked a significant recognition of the Northeast’s growing strategic importance in India’s defence preparedness and infrastructure push.

Held along the banks of the Brahmaputra, the grand display brought alive the IAF’s anniversary theme, “Infallible, Impervious and Precise,” and drew thousands of spectators from across Assam and neighbouring states. The event formed part of the IAF’s nationwide anniversary celebrations aimed at showcasing its operational strength and technological prowess.

Frontline combat aircraft, including Rafale, Tejas, Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29, Mirage and Jaguar fighter jets, thundered across the skies, alongside Apache attack helicopters and heavy transport aircraft such as the C-17 Globemaster, C-130J Hercules, IL-78 aerial refueller, AN-32 and C-295.

A major highlight of the show was the breathtaking performance by the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, whose precision manoeuvres and tricolour smoke formations captivated the crowd.

Several aerial formations were themed around iconic symbols of the Northeast, including Lachit, Kaziranga, Manas and Barak, underlining the region’s cultural heritage and strategic significance. A special formation paying tribute to Operation Sindoor symbolised the courage and commitment of the Indian Air Force in recent operations.

The event was attended by Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya, Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, senior commanders of the Eastern Air Command, and top civil and military officials.

Addressing the gathering, senior IAF leaders highlighted the strategic importance of the Northeast in India’s defence architecture and reiterated the force’s commitment to safeguarding national security through preparedness, precision and advanced capabilities.

Beyond its display of air power, the historic air show served as an inspiration for youth and aviation enthusiasts, offering a close look at the discipline, skill and technological might of the Indian Air Force, while reinforcing a strong message of national pride, readiness and aerial dominance in the region.

• Dipanjana D