The Russian Knights aerobatic team paid a poignant tribute to Wing Commander Namansh Syal, the Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot who tragically died in a Tejas fighter jet crash at the Dubai Airshow 2025. The team dedicated their performance to the fallen pilot, calling him a "brother in the skies".

The incident occurred on Friday, November 21, when the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft crashed during a low-level negative-G manoeuvre at the Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai. The aircraft rapidly lost altitude, crashed, and burst into flames, with thick smoke billowing over the venue. Spectators, including families, watched the tragic event unfold.

In a moving gesture of solidarity, the Russian Knights performed the "Missing Man" formation, a symbolic aerial manoeuvre used to honor fallen aviators. The team shared a video on VK, a Russian social media platform, expressing that the incident was "impossible to describe". They stated that their aerial performance was meant to honor "the brothers who did not return from the last flight".

The tribute from the Russian team resonated deeply within the aviation community, highlighting the sense of unity and shared experience among military aviators worldwide. One of the Russian pilots conveyed profound grief over the incident. The gesture extended beyond simple condolences, acknowledging India's commitment and sacrifices in advancing its indigenous defence capabilities.

The Russian Knights' tribute included a video of their formation team soaring in a tight aerial pattern, accompanied by a message conveying support for the Indian Air Force and honouring the deceased pilot. This act of solidarity from a foreign military team underscored the professional camaraderie prevalent in aviation.

India and Russia share a long history of defence cooperation, encompassing combat aircraft, engines, and joint ventures in aerospace. Moscow's public salute acknowledged India's efforts in developing its homegrown defence capabilities.

The Indian Air Force has convened a court of inquiry to determine the cause of the crash. The loss of Wing Commander Namansh Syal is a moment of grief for his family, the Indian Air Force, and the nation. The international message of condolence and solidarity offers support during this difficult time.