By Vijay Grover
The Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force (IAF) left an indelible mark on the Singapore skies, with a dare-devil-based performance on the launch. Visitors at the Singapore Airshow were mesmerized by the Indian national bird “Peacock” design Aerobatic team maneuvers. The team, after arriving in Singapore, conducted its first practice display on Sunday and its first public performance on the Inaugural day of the Singapore Air Show 2024.
The Sarang team which is performing a four-helicopter display for the audience at the Singapore Airshow won Singapore’s hearts with its precision flying and daredevilry displayed in its aerobatic performances. Speaking to the Indian Aerospace and Defence Sq Leader Shipra said, “We had immense pride in performing here at the Singapore Show, and it makes us happy to showcase the capabilities of the team and the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv”
The aerobatic display is designed to highlight the Made in India ALH Dhruv’s agility and maneuverability. The ALH which is completing its second decade has become a showcase of the successful implementation of Make In India. Wing Cdr Krish, highlighted the achievement of the most popular helicopter aerobatic team in the world. The journey of the Sarang, which was initially based out of Bengaluru in India depends on the synchronization of maneuvers performed by the team. Squadron Leader Akash, one of the youngest members of the team told Indian Aerospace and Defence Magazine, “I trust every member of my team and a lot of practice goes into it. Sarang is all about teamwork. We function as a team that trusts each other and performs together”
What the public sees as a few minutes of aerobatic display needs a lot of practice and rehearsals apart from months of training. Wing Commander Krish told our team exclusively, “This is a volunteer-based aerobatic team where trained pilots volunteer to become a part of the Sarang Team. A pilot has to do about 20- 25 sorties as a co-pilot before even being operational and then come in the team”
The indigenously manufactured ALH and its advanced variants are operated by all the military services of India. The successful induction and operational utilization of this platform is one of the glowing success stories of self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in the defence sector.
To participate in the Singapore Airshow a team of 71 personnel of the Indian Air Force’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team arrived at Singapore’s Paya Lebar Air Base last week.
The Sarang Team, celebrated for its precision and breathtaking aerobatic maneuvers, will be performing on all the days of the Singapore Airshow. Advanced Light Helicopter ‘Dhruv’, representing India’s indigenous aerospace engineering prowess, has been developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). These helicopters, known for their rigid, hinge-less rotors, offer exceptional maneuverability, making them perfectly suited for the team’s complex aerial displays.
The IAF’s participation further strengthens its diplomatic and defence ties with participating nations.
The Sarang Team was established in 2003 and has a rich history of international performances, with its debut at the Asian Aerospace Show in Singapore in 2004. Since then, it has captivated audiences worldwide, performing over 1200 displays at more than 385 venues. The progression from a three-helicopter formation to the current five-helicopter team reflects the IAF’s dedication to innovation and excellence in aerial display.
The ALH ‘Dhruv’ today stands as a symbol of India’s self-reliance in defence technology. The helicopter variants, from the ALH Mk-I used by the Sarang Team to the latest ALH Mk-IV-armed version, highlight the evolution and versatility of this aircraft, capable of performing in all weather conditions and fulfilling a variety of military missions.
The Singapore Air Show 2024 provides a unique platform for the IAF to showcase its expertise and the advanced capabilities of the ‘Dhruv’ helicopters. It also offers an opportunity for fostering international cooperation and showcasing India’s advancements in aerospace and defence technology on a global scale.
Several countries have expressed interest in acquiring the advanced Light Helicopter.
As the event unfolds, the Sarang Team is set to leave a lasting impression, embodying the spirit of the IAF and India’s strides in aviation and technological innovation.
