November 8, 2025 –
The Indian Air Force (IAF) reached a historic milestone in 2025 by hosting its first-ever full-scale air show in Northeast India. The event, held in Guwahati on November 9, 2025, transformed the skies above the Brahmaputra River into a theater of speed, precision, and power.
Thousands of citizens gathered to witness the IAF Air Show Guwahati 2025, an extraordinary spectacle that showcased India’s aerial defense capabilities, indigenously developed aircraft, and technological strength.
Celebrating the 93rd anniversary of the Indian Air Force, the air show stood as a symbol of patriotism, strategic preparedness, and India’s growing aerospace ambitions.
Why Guwahati? The Strategic Choice Behind the Indian Air Force Air Show
Gateway to Northeast India
Guwahati, often called the “Gateway to the Northeast,” is more than just a cultural capital — it’s a strategic defense hub. Its proximity to India’s international borders with China, Bhutan, and Myanmar gives it immense importance in terms of national security and air defense operations.
The city falls under the Eastern Air Command (EAC), headquartered in Shillong, which oversees IAF operations in the northeastern and eastern sectors. Hosting the air show here underscored the region’s growing strategic significance and its integral role in India’s defense network.
Boosting Regional Morale
The IAF Air Show in Guwahati was not just a demonstration of air power — it was a morale booster for the people of the Northeast. By bringing such a monumental event to Assam, the IAF reaffirmed the region’s importance and inspired the youth to take pride in national defense.
Event Details: Dates, Venue, and Timings
- Event Name: IAF Air Show Guwahati 2025
- Occasion: 93rd Anniversary of the Indian Air Force
- Date: November 9, 2025
- Venue: Lachit Ghat, Brahmaputra Riverfront, Guwahati
- Timings: 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM (Main Aerial Display)
- Organized by: Eastern Air Command, Indian Air Force
The Lachit Ghat venue offered panoramic visibility of the aerial formations over the Brahmaputra River, with public viewing points established across Uzanbazar, Bharalumukh, and Fancy Bazar.
Theme of the Event: “Infallible, Impervious, and Precise”
The theme for the IAF Air Show Guwahati was “Infallible, Impervious, and Precise.” This powerful message embodied the spirit of the Indian Air Force — emphasizing accuracy, resilience, and strength.
The objectives of the show were:
- To celebrate IAF’s 93rd anniversary in a landmark regional event.
- To inspire youth of the Northeast to join the Indian Air Force.
- To showcase indigenous aircraft under the Make in India initiative.
- To strengthen national unity through public engagement and pride in defense forces.
Preparation and Rehearsals: Guwahati’s Skies Roar Ahead of the Event
Days before the grand show, Guwahati’s skies came alive with the roar of fighter jets during rehearsal sessions. Residents witnessed Sukhoi Su-30MKIs, Rafales, and Tejas LCA streaking across the skyline, drawing immense excitement on social media.
The IAF conducted multiple dry runs to ensure safety and precision. City officials, local police, and the Assam government collaborated with the Air Force to coordinate security, crowd management, and traffic control around the Brahmaputra waterfront.
Aircraft Lineup: A Showcase of Power and Innovation
Fighter Jets
The star attractions were the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and Tejas (LCA) fighter jets — representing India’s multi-generation air superiority.
- Rafale: The pride of the IAF, known for its agility, speed, and precision in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
- Su-30MKI: The backbone of India’s fighter fleet, produced under license by HAL, capable of long-range missions.
- Tejas (LCA): India’s indigenous light combat aircraft developed under the Make in India initiative.
Helicopters
- Apache AH-64E: Advanced attack helicopter designed for multi-role combat.
- Mi-17 V5: Medium-lift transport and rescue helicopter.
- ALH Dhruv: Indigenous helicopter developed by HAL, showcased in rescue and formation operations.
Transport & Support Aircraft
- C-295: India’s new-generation tactical airlifter built in collaboration with Airbus.
- IL-78: Air-to-air refueling tanker showcasing mid-air refueling capability.
- DO-228: Multi-role aircraft for logistics and maritime patrol.
Aerobatic Teams
- Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT): The showstopper, performing thrilling red-and-white smoke formations.
- AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System): Provided real-time surveillance and coordination during aerial displays.
Formation Flying and Precision Displays
Formation flying is the heart of every air show — and the IAF pilots in Guwahati delivered perfection. Spectators witnessed breathtaking formations such as:
- Arrowhead formation by Su-30MKIs
- Trishul formation by Tejas LCA
- Diamond loop and barrel rolls by the Surya Kiran team
Each maneuver reflected split-second timing, discipline, and coordination — hallmarks of the Indian Air Force.
Public Arrangements: Open Access for All
Public Viewing Points
The IAF ensured wide public participation by setting up designated viewing points along both riverbanks:
- Uzanbazar Riverfront Park
- Fancy Bazar Ghat
- Bharalumukh Point
- Special VIP area near Aswaklanta Temple
Thousands gathered across these locations, waving the tricolor and cheering as jets roared overhead.
Student Involvement
Over 3,000 students from schools and colleges across Assam and Northeast India were specially invited. The IAF’s goal was to inspire young minds to pursue careers in the Indian Air Force and related defense fields.
Distinguished Guests and VIP Presence
The event was graced by:
- Shri Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister of India (Chief Guest)
- Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff
- Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
- Senior officers of the Indian Army, Navy, and IAF
Their attendance highlighted the strategic and symbolic importance of hosting the event in Assam — strengthening the bridge between the Armed Forces and the people of the Northeast.
Crowd Management, Security, and Environmental Safety
The IAF worked closely with the Assam Police, NDRF, SDRF, and Disaster Management teams to maintain public safety.
Key safety measures included:
- Restricted drone usage
- Emergency response teams stationed at viewing zones
- Controlled crowd movement
- Environmental protocols to protect the Brahmaputra ecosystem
No incidents were reported, marking a flawless execution of both security and environmental management.
Make in India in the Sky: Indigenous Pride Takes Flight
The IAF Air Show Guwahati proudly spotlighted India’s self-reliance in defense technology. Aircraft like the Tejas LCA, ALH Dhruv, and C-295 stood as testaments to India’s growing aerospace manufacturing capability under Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The presence of indigenous systems reflected not only operational excellence but also India’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in defense production.
Focus Keywords: Make in India, Tejas LCA, Indian aviation, indigenous aircraft India
Media Buzz: Guwahati Becomes the Center of Attention
From early morning rehearsals to the final Rafale flypast, the IAF Air Show Guwahati dominated national headlines and social media.
- News outlets like The Hindu, Economic Times, and Guwahati Plus covered the event extensively.
- Thousands of photos and videos went viral, capturing Surya Kiran’s synchronized loops and Tejas’ sonic climbs.
- The hashtag #IAFAirShowGuwahati trended across X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.
Local pride soared as residents felt a deep connection to the nation’s defense legacy.
Public Reaction: Pride, Patriotism, and Inspiration
The emotional impact of the event was immense. Families, children, and veterans filled the riverfront with cheers and patriotic slogans.
Many young spectators expressed new aspirations to join the Indian Air Force after witnessing the live aerial demonstration.
Local businesses also benefited from tourism and media attention, adding an economic boost to Guwahati’s hospitality and event sectors.
Strategic Significance: Northeast India in National Defense
The decision to host the air show in Guwahati reflects India’s growing focus on the Northeast as a critical region in its defense infrastructure.
The event sent a clear message of readiness and integration — reinforcing that the Northeast is not peripheral, but central to India’s security strategy.
This aligns with India’s Act East Policy, improving both connectivity and defense cooperation with neighboring nations.
Behind the Scenes: Months of Planning and Coordination
Organizing such a large-scale air show required:
- Three months of planning by Eastern Air Command and local administration.
- Pilot briefings and route approvals to ensure flight safety over populated zones.
- Coordination with Guwahati Traffic Police for road diversions and crowd control.
- Weather monitoring and environmental clearance from the Assam Pollution Control Board.
The seamless execution proved the IAF’s operational excellence, not just in combat but in event management and civil cooperation.
Educational Outreach: Inspiring the Next Generation
In line with its “Know Your Air Force” campaign, the IAF also set up interactive booths, career guidance stalls, and recruitment information kiosks near Lachit Ghat.
Students interacted with Air Force personnel, learning about aircraft systems, training academies, and the lifestyle of pilots and engineers.
This engagement bridged the gap between the military and civilians, reinforcing the IAF’s image as a modern, inclusive, and aspirational institution.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Indian Air Force History
The IAF Air Show Guwahati 2025 was more than a celebration — it was a declaration of unity, pride, and technological advancement.
By illuminating the skies of Assam, the Indian Air Force reminded the nation that the Northeast is at the forefront of India’s skyward journey. The thunder of fighter jets over the Brahmaputra wasn’t just sound — it was the echo of progress, courage, and the indomitable spirit of India’s air warriors.
As the last formation vanished into the horizon, the people of Guwahati stood proud — knowing they had witnessed history written in the clouds.
you can also visit India News Category
FAQs about Indian AIR Force(IAF)
Q1. Where was the IAF Air Show held?
Ans – Lachit Ghat, Guwahati, on the banks of Brahmaputra River
Q2. When was event held?
Ans – November 9, 2025
Q3. Which aircraft were displayed?
Ans – Rafale, Su-30MKI, Tejas LCA, Apache, ALH Dhruv, IL-78, and C-295
Q4. What was the theme?
Ans – “Infallible, Impervious, and Precise”
Q5: Who was the Chief Guest?
Ans – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Q6: Was it open to public?
Ans -Yes, with public viewing areas and student invitations
Q7: Purpose of the show?
Ans -To celebrate IAF’s 93rd anniversary and inspire youth towards defense careers
