Aircraft put up grand air show at Aero India 2023 in Bengaluru | Watch video

Bengaluru, Feb 13: Dubbed as Asia's largest military aviation exhibition, the Aero India 2023 began on a spectacular note where multiple fighter jets presented a grand fly-past and air display with aircraft and helicopters at the Air Force Station in Yelahanka, Bengaluru from February 13-17. The biennial airshow was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi on the commencing date. Bengaluru has successfully hosted 13 versions of the famous aerospace exhibition since 1996.

One of the most spectacular displays at the Aero India 2023, like every year, will be the acrobatics show by Indian Air Force's Suryakiran Aerobatics Team.

One of the world's finest jet plane display teams, Suryakiran will enthral audience with various formations.

The aircrafts in the defense sector which are expected to get the most attention are Dassault Rafale M, Lockheed Martin F-21, Sukhoi Su-57, LCA Tejas, and Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet.

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will display a 'Aatmanirbhar Formation' flight of 15 helicopters consisting of all variants of Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), 'Prachand' Light Combat Helicopter, and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).

A premier exhibition in the global aviation industry, Aero India is held biennially in a total area of around 35,000 sqm, providing opportunity to the industry to showcase its capabilities, products and services.

Defence Research and Development Organisation-developed Medium Altitude Long Endurance class unmanned aerial vehicle TAPAS-BH (Tactical Aerial Platform for Advanced Surveillance - Beyond Horizon) will make its flying debut at Aero India.

"TAPAS is DRDO's solution to the tri-services ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance) requirements. The UAV is capable of operating at altitudes up to 28000 feet, with an endurance of 18 plus hours", according to DRDO.

TAPAS-BH, which would make its first public flight, can carry a variety of payloads up to a maximum of 350 kgs, DRDO officials said.

The DRDO pavilion will showcase over 330 products categorised into 12 zones including Combat Aircraft & UAVs, Missiles & Strategic Systems, Engine & Propulsion Systems, Airborne Surveillance Systems, and Sensors Electronic Warfare & Communication Systems, it was stated.

This year, the exhibition is expected to be the biggest air show with the highest rate of participation and will feature top international think-tanks, major aerospace companies and world leaders, according to Defence Ministry.