IAF's 'Sarang' wins accolades in Berlin

New Delhi, Jun 12 (UNI) Indian Air Force's helicopter display team 'Sarang' -- using the latest Advance Light Helicopter Dhruv -- has been adjudged the 'best looking close formation' aerobatic team at the ILA Berlin Air Show, 2008.

Out of the five aircraft formation teams from various countries -- India, Switzerland, Austria, UK and Germany, the Indian 'Sarang' stood out conspicuously.

At the recently concluded ILA Berlin Air Show, India participated in a big way. The Indian participation comprised defence public sector undertakings, Ordnance Factory Board, Defence Research and Development Organisation and private defence industry.

At present the 'Sarang' team of 4 Dhruv helicopters, 14 officers and 32 airmen led by Wg Cdr Shashank Mishra, is participating in various displays in England. They are slated to perform at Biggin hill Air Show followed by Waddington Air Show, Fairford Royal International and the prestigious Farnborough International Air Show before returning home.

The 'Sarang' helicopter display team of the Indian Air Force was formed in March 2002. The name 'Sarang' was chosen for the team as peacock is one of the most enchanting bird and epitomises beauty and grace. The team's helicopters have been painted in a unique paint scheme which utilises bright colours with a peacock form imposed on it.

The first public display of the Sarang team was during the Asian Aerospace at Singapore in 2004.

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