In Pictures: Aero India 2021

The 13th edition of the biennial aerospace and defence exhibition kicked off on Wednesday, making it first such global event to be held in the India since the Covid-19 outbreak.

Aero India 2021, the largest air show in Asia, is usually a big draw for aviation groups and a platform for aerospace and defence manufacturers—both domestic and foreign—to display of their top offerings. Spectators enjoy some high-flying action.

This year's even will have both physical and virtual displays and a negative report of a RT-PCR test for Covid-19 is is a must to attend.

About 540 exhibitors including 80 foreign companies, defence ministers, delegates, service chiefs and officials from more than 55 nations are participating.

Here are slideshows of some of the best shots from Aero Show India 2021:

This year was no different with homegrown Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. taking the lead role at the Air Force Station in Yelahanka, and showcased a joint aerobatics by Suryakiran planes, and Sarang choppers.

The Supersonic

A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer bomber flies with an Indian Air Force light combat aircraft Tejas. Called the backbone of American long-range bomber aircraft, it's capable for carrying payloads of up to 35,000 kilograms. It holds about 50 world records for speed, payload, range, and time of climb in its class.

The Daredevil 

The Surya Kiran team with the Hawk Mk-132 Advanced Jet Trainer is Indian Air force's aerobatic team. The formation of nine-aircraft, first took flight in 1998.

The Globemaster 

Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster, in the middle, flanked by Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets.

The Beast 

HAL's indigenously developed light combat helicopter is the first attack helicopter with aerial combat capabilities

The Aatmanirbhar Formation Flight 

Hindustan Aeronautics-developed aircraft that includes, Improved IJT two HTT40, LCA Tejas, and an advanced Hawk-i .