Military aviation training over Astana: Aerial photography reveals progress
Gearing Up for the 80th Anniversary Aerial Spectacle
The clock is ticking until the grand airshow in Astana, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War Victory Parade. For six grueling days, the Kazakhstan Air Force has been honing its skills under the watchful eye of Colonel Zhanibek Zhumaev, Deputy Commander of Combat Training.
Photos: our website/Ekaterina Yelisueva
With just a few training sessions left, Colonel Zhumaev orders the takeoff of more than 66 aircraft of various types from Astana Airport. This impressive fleet, comprised of airplanes and helicopters, prepares to perform awe-inspiring aerobatic formations over the capital city.
Photos: our website/Ekaterina Yelisueva
The Air Force's commitment to the parade is unwavering, with over 250 flight crews and around 400 support personnel answering the call to duty. Units responsible for technical and material support, as well as aircraft from Karaganda and Taldykorgan airfields, are all enlisted to ensure a seamless show.
Photos: our website/Ekaterina Yelisueva
Coordinating such a vast aerial demonstration is no small feat, and Colonel Zhumaev leads the charge with precision. Each aircraft must adhere to a specific plan: taking off at designated times, flying to specified locations, and maintaining given altitudes, all to ensure maximum safety.
Photos: our website/Ekaterina Yelisueva
Major Azamat Temirgali, Senior Engineer-Inspector of the Engineering-Aviation Department of the Air Force Command, explains the air parade's significance. It's a testament to the modern and professional nature of the Kazakh army, reflecting years of dedication and advancement. Interestingly, the exact number of aircraft in the sky cannot be determined due to varying flight speeds.
The traditions of aviation carry their own risks, as iterated by Lieutenant Beket Orynbasar, a pilot of an aviation squadron. Before flights, pilots forgo any distractions, abstaining from photos and interviews to focus solely on safety. In a quirky turn, pilots also stroke the aircraft and converse with them before taking to the skies.
His personal discussions with the helicopter remain private, with Lieutenant Orynbasar sharing that it's not something he's willing to disclose. However, he does emphasize their deep appreciation for the machinery, always ensuring it's cleaned thoroughly. His family understands the demands of his job and frequently wishes him luck before each flight, a testament to the pride and honor associated with participating in the awe-inspiring parade.
Today, journalists were given the unique opportunity to witness the rehearsals firsthand, both on the ground and from the air. Flying in a group of five helicopters for approximately 30 minutes, they bore witness to astonishing views of Astana and the intricate coordination of military aircraft. However, the exhilarating experience proved challenging for the uninitiated, with many passengers reporting nausea due to pressure changes and headaches caused by helicopter noise.
Lieutenant Orynbasar recalled that initial landings in a helicopter can be nerve-wracking, but with experienced pilots at the helm, even the most complicated maneuvers become a smooth and effortless end to the flight.
The parade in honor of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War will grace the main square of Astana on May 7. The grand spectacle will involve more than 4,000 military personnel, over 300 units of weapons and military equipment, including samples from the Great Patriotic War era, and 60 front-line, army, and military-transport aircraft. The event will display the unity and readiness of Kazakhstan's military forces, culminating in a triumphant celebration of their history and legacy.
- I, as a journalist, was granted a unique opportunity to witness the rehearsals for the upcoming air parade in Astana, marking the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War Victory Parade.
- To ensure the success of this grand airshow, units from various airfields, such as Karaganda and Taldykorgan, have been enlisted to provide technical and material support.
- Major Azamat Temirgali, a Senior Engineer-Inspector in the Engineering-Aviation Department of the Air Force Command, highlighted the significance of the parade, showcasing the modern and professional nature of the Kazakh army.
- During the parade, Colonel Zhumaev demands meticulous adherence to a specific plan for each aircraft, ensuring the safety of all participants.
- In the aviation industry, pilots, like Lieutenant Beket Orynbasar, prioritize safety above all else, abstaining from distractions before flights and building a bond with their aircraft.
- The 80th anniversary air parade in Astana not only celebrates the history and legacy of the Kazakh military forces but also extends to other domains, such as sports and sports-betting, as the event promises to be a triumphant spectacle for all.
