Aero India 2025 Live Updates: US Air Force Band ‘Final Approach’ Performs in Bengaluru

The United States Air Force Band of the Pacific’s rock ensemble, Final Approach, has landed in Bengaluru to perform at Aero India 2025, celebrating the strong ties between the United States and India through the universal language of music.

The 10-member band kicked off their visit with an electrifying concert at Christ University, where students and music lovers experienced a high-energy performance. Over the next two days, Final Approach will take the stage at Aero India 2025, the prestigious aerospace and defense exhibition, to entertain the crowd with their signature pop and rock performances.

Senior Airman Brian Ellerman, the band’s drummer, expressed his excitement, saying, “Performing in Bengaluru is an incredible experience. The energy and enthusiasm of the audience are overwhelming. We are honored to be part of this celebration of the U.S.-India partnership.”

Beyond performances, the band is also conducting music workshops with talented Indian musicians, fostering cross-cultural exchange. With their dynamic music and powerful message of unity, Final Approach is not just here to perform but to strengthen the deep friendship between the two nations.

The United States Air Force Band of the Pacific's ensemble, Final Approach, will perform at Aero India 2025 to celebrate Indo-US ties through music.
To kick off their tour, the band delivered a rock concert at Christ University today.
According to the US Consulate, the band will perform at Aero India on February 13-14.
The 10-member ensemble will also conduct workshops with talented Indian musicians to share their musical expertise.

The Chairman of HAL addressed concerns about delays in delivering Tejas aircraft to the Indian Air Force, attributing the setbacks to technical issues rather than inefficiency. He assured that efforts are underway to speed up deliveries.

Following a coast guard incident, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) was grounded, and investigations are ongoing to find the root cause. Clearances will be issued once findings are available.

At Aero India, HAL showcased its dominance with flight displays featuring the Tejas Mark 1. The company is working on export deals and plans to compete with American and Russian fifth-generation fighters through the development of its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). (Reported by Deepak Bopanna)

Addressing concerns raised by the Air Chief over delayed deliveries of the Tejas aircraft, the Chairman clarified that the delays were due to technical issues rather than inefficiency. He assured that the team is fully committed to expediting deliveries. The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) was recently grounded following a coast guard incident. The Chairman termed the event unfortunate and stated that investigations are underway to determine the root cause. Clearances will be issued based on the findings.

The Chairman of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) highlighted the company's competitive edge over China, stating that HAL has complete Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) control over its aircraft systems, including critical software components. “Other than the engine, everything is under our control, giving us an advantage in cost and operational flexibility,” he said, adding that several Middle Eastern countries have concerns about dealing with certain other nations, which boosts HAL’s prospects.

1. The timings of the show are from 9 AM to 6 PM.
2. It's important to carry a valid government ID card.
3. Arrive early for your connvience.
4. For protection, it's advised to carry sun protection and wear comfortable shoes and clothing
5. Keep cash handy as backup.

The first Aero India show was held at Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru, in 1996, organised by the Defence Exhibition Organisation, Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence.

The UK-India strategic partnership took another major step forward with the formal launch of Defence Partnership�India (DP-I) and the signing of several defence agreements at the Aero India show on Monday. Announcing DP-I, UK Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker inaugurated the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion, establishing a dedicated programme office within the UK's Ministry of Defence to serve as a one-stop shop for strengthening bilateral defence collaboration between the two countries.

The Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), mesmerised spectators at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru with its impressive aerial manoeuvres. Demonstrating its agility and strength, the indigenous helicopter garnered praise for its advanced capabilities.

Commentators proudly highlighted in Kannada that the LUH is not only designed in India but also manufactured in Karnataka at HAL’s Tumakuru facility, sparking loud applause from the local audience. The LUH’s successful high-altitude tests in the Himalayas were also mentioned, emphasising its versatility and suitability for challenging terrains.

As per the HAL product brochure, the LUH is a lightweight, crashworthy six-seater helicopter weighing under 2,000 kg. It can cruise at a maximum speed of 235 km per hour and perform multiple missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, troop transport, and armed roles.

Officials highlighted the helicopter’s importance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Mission, which aims to reduce India's dependency on foreign defence equipment. The LUH has been designed as a replacement for the ageing Cheetah and Chetak helicopters currently in service with the Indian armed forces.

Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, the LUH is set to play a vital role in India's growing aerospace sector and national security.

Day 1 began with an impressive flying display, featuring advanced aviation technology and stunning aerial stunts that amazed the audience. Stay tuned for more exciting highlights from Asia’s top airshow!

In a historic first, the Russian fifth-generation fighter jet Su-57 wowed spectators with a thrilling aerobatic display at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru. The manoeuvres showcased the advanced combat capabilities and agility of the stealth aircraft.

The Su-57's participation is seen as a significant highlight of this year's edition, drawing defence enthusiasts and global aerospace leaders alike. Aero India 2025 continues to serve as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge defence technology and strengthening international ties.

For the first time in history, Aero India 2025 is hosting two of the world’s most advanced fifth-generation fighter jets — the American F-35 Lightning II and the Russian Su-57. Highlighting the significance of this rare display, a government statement noted, “Aero India 2025 will witness the participation of both the Russian Su-57 and the American F-35, marking a historic event in defence showcases.”

At the inauguration of the 15th edition of Aero India at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru on February 10, 2025, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the event's significance. "#AeroIndia2025 is a confluence of critical and frontier technologies, offering a platform to foster stronger ties among like-minded nations based on mutual respect, shared interests, and mutual benefits, essential for addressing today's uncertainties," he stated.

Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said, "... Karnataka has been at the forefront of this journey leading innovation and attracting global partnership. Bengaluru is the aerospace capital of the country, contributing to nearly 60% of aerospace manufacturing and defence research... Bengaluru is the only city in the world to have both commercial and defence airports operating from the same city. Indian aerospace is strengthening through partnerships with various nations..."

As Aero India 2025 kicks off in Bengaluru, Fifth-Generation Fighter Jets are on display, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated the event.