Bengaluru: The 15th edition of Aero India, which is considered to be Asia's biggest aerospace and defence exhibition, was inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Yelahanka Air Force Station In Karnataka's capital Bengaluru on Monday. On the first day of the mega defence event, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team's BAE Hawk Mk 132, Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A and Sukhoi's Su-30 MKI enthralled the audiences.
BAE Hawk Mk 132 jets took off giving out colors of the National Flag. LCA Tejas Mark 1A and Su-30 MKI of the Indian Air Force (IAF) also performed breathtaking manoeuvres in the sky.
Here Are Visuals:
Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team's BAE Hawk Mk 132:
LCA Tejas Mark 1A In Action:
Su-30 MKI Performs Manoeuvres:
Drawing a comparison to the Maha Kumbh Mela taking place in Prayagraj, Rajnath Singh described 'Aero India 2025' as a Maha Kumbh of India's display of might. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, he stated, "During this time in India, the Maha Kumbh Mela is taking place, where many people from India and abroad are taking a holy dip in Prayagraj. I, too, was fortunate to take a holy dip in Prayagraj. I believe that the Aero India show marks the beginning of another Maha Kumbh in the country."
"On one side, Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh reflects self-esteem, while on the other, this Maha Kumbh of Aero India is about 'Anusandhan' (research)," he described as reported by IANS.
"Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh focuses on internal strengthening, whereas Aero India emphasises external strengthening. Prayagraj's Maha Kumbh showcases India's rich culture, while Aero India displays India's military and technological might," the defence minister underlined.
"At Prayagraj, India's heritage and spirituality are on display, and here, at Aero India, a Maha Kumbh of 'parakram' (valour) and 'ayudh' (weaponry) is taking place. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement-'Vikas bhi aur Virasat bhi' (development and heritage together)-is most appropriate at this moment. Such an event can happen only in India," Singh remarked.
A total of 90 nations will be represented at Aero India 2025. The event will feature 70 fighter jets, cargo, and trainer aircraft, along with 30 helicopters, all performing breathtaking aerial stunts. Russian and American fighter jets will be the highlights of the exhibition. Additionally, over 900 manufacturers from different countries will take part, showcasing advancements in AI, drones, cybersecurity, global aerospace, and emerging technologies. 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) products will be prominently displayed in this edition of the show.
The event will also witness the participation of 100 CEOs from various companies and 50 foreign OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers). Discussions will be held on investment, research, joint ventures, and the Defence sector. There will be seminars covering 10 different topics, along with over 70 flying displays as part of the air show. The event is expected to attract a crowd of more than 700,000 spectators. The presence of Russian Su-57 and US' F-35, the fifth-generation stealth fighters is the major highlight of the show. This is the first time, the two are sharing the same space.
