Jammu : To commemorate 76 years of accession of J&K into Indian Union and the Diamond Jubilee of Air Force Station Jammu, the Indian Air Force, Government of UT of J&K, Department of Tourism and Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), J&K combined organised a spectacular air show and ground display at Air Force Station Jammu on 21 and 22 Sep 23. IAF Air Warrior Drill Team (AWDT), Aakashganga Daredevil Skydiving Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), Mi-17 1V Helicopters and the Air Force Band participated in the two day marquee event. The display was witnessed by the residents, students from various schools of Jammu, veterans, civil dignitaries and personnel of Defence Forces & CAPFs.
The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of UT of J&K, Shri Manoj Sinha, graced the mega Air Show wherein he was received by AVM PK Vohra, AOC J&K & Air Commodore SS Rawat, AOC 23 Wing, AF at Air Force Station Jammu. The Chief Guest was welcomed with the Nation Anthem and salute by three MI-17 1V helicopters.
The event began with mesmerizing Free Fall display by Akashganga Daredevil Skydiving Team, who dived with the Indian Flag and the IAF flag, enthralling the huge audience. The touch down of the 14 member Akash Ganga sky diving team of the Indian Air Force was cheered by huge gathering who were enjoying the event in full swing.
The event was followed by display of slithering and Small Team Insertion and Extraction techniques by IAF Garuda Commando team through Mi-17 1V Medium Lift Helicopters. Simultaneously Suryakiran Aerobatic team took off for aerial display which was greatly applauded by the audience. The event culminated with showcasing of precision drill movements by the Air Warrior Drill Team “Subroto” (AWDT). The leader marching through spinning rifles was especially enthralling for the spectators. As the AWDT marched off, the children were especially thrilled and the cheer of the crowd was ear deafening. The entire event was supplemented by the melodious and martial tunes by the Air Force Band.
The display showcased the operational capability of the Indian Air Force with an aim to motivate youth to join the elite service. The event also aimed to sensitize general public about the hazards for aviation and how can they assist in aviation safety. Overall, the show was a resounding success and was an outcome of synchronized co-ordination between the Government of UT of J&K and Air Force Station Jammu.