The sprawling campus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla, Pune, is preparing to witness one of the most memorable moments in its history. On May 29 and 30, the country’s premier tri-services academy will celebrate the Passing Out Parade of its landmark 150th course, a milestone that represents decades of military excellence, discipline, and leadership.

But this year’s celebrations are about far more than tradition. 

For the first time, the famed Indian Air Force Sarang Helicopter Display Team will present upgraded five-helicopter aerial manoeuvres over the iconic Sudan Block during the convocation ceremony. At the same time, the event will also honour the third graduating batch of women cadets from the NDA.

Sarang Team Returns With a Spectacular New Display

After a two-year gap, the Sarang Helicopter Display Team is returning to the NDA convocation ceremony, and this time, it promises to be bigger, sharper, and more daring than ever before.

Flying the indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, the Sarang team is known across India for its breathtaking synchronised flying and daring aerial formations. The helicopters, painted in vibrant red and white colours, have become crowd favourites at air shows and defence events.

This year, the team will perform with five helicopters, introducing upgraded formations and crossover manoeuvres never before showcased at the NDA.

According to Squadron Leader B.S. Dumre, the new additions to the display will bring an entirely different level of complexity and visual drama. During one of the signature crossover break manoeuvres, four helicopters will split while the fifth aircraft flies dramatically through the centre of the formation. In another stunning sequence, the extra helicopter will slice through a heart-shaped formation before the team breaks away in five different directions.

“The five-helicopter display has been showcased at other places in India, but this will be the first time we will perform it at the NDA,” Squadron Leader Dumre said ahead of the event.

Women Officers Add New Meaning to the Celebration

Adding even greater significance to the display will be the participation of two women co-pilots — Squadron Leader Nidarshana and Squadron Leader Ankita.

Their presence in the cockpit during such a prestigious military event symbolises the rapid transformation taking place within India’s defence forces. It also perfectly complements another major highlight of the celebration that is the graduation of the NDA’s third batch of women cadets.

More Than a Parade — A Symbol of Modern India

The NDA’s 150th course celebrations represent more than military ceremony and aerial spectacle. They reflect the evolution of India’s Armed Forces into a more modern, inclusive, and technologically advanced institution.

With indigenously developed ALH Dhruv helicopters dominating the skies and women cadets earning their place in one of the world’s toughest military academies, the celebrations at Khadakwasla capture the spirit of a nation embracing progress while honouring tradition.

As the Sarang helicopters roar across the Pune skyline and cadets prepare for one of the proudest moments of their lives, the NDA’s historic parade promises to become a powerful symbol of courage, precision, and a new era for India’s defence forces.