by CJ

click on a little pic to see a bigger one

The Patrouille Suisse has been the official aerobic team of the Swiss Air Force since its formation in 1964. It is also the visiting card of the Swiss Army at home and abroad.

In the beginning the team consisted of four Hawker Hunter Mk 58.

In 1970, a fifth airplane joined the formation and in 1978 the number of airplanes grew up to six, so that flight programs with two solo pilots became possible.

The HUNTER:

The Hawker Hunter was Britain's most successful fighter/bomber ever developed, more than 1900 were built in England.
PERFORMANCE: Wing span: 10,26 m. Length: 13,98 m. Height: 4,26 m. Max. speed: Mach 0.94 (1142 km/h, 710 mph.) Empty weight: 13,270 lbs.(6020 kg.) Max. weight: 24,000 lbs.(10885 kg.) Powerplant: one Rolls-Royce Avon 207 turbojet Thrust: 10,150 lbs.(4605 kg.)

In 1997, the last Hunter Mk 58 has been exempted from military service and so
the Patrouille Suisse had to look after a new plane.

They found it with the Northrop F-5E Tiger II.

Their mission consists in presenting the performances, precision and engagement preparation of the Swiss Air Force.

They give you a glimpse into the fascinating world of close formation flight and arouse the interest of the Swiss youth in the numerous careers available in aviation.

All the members of the Patrouille Suisse are professional military pilots or specialised officers from the Surveillance wing and train together during the airshow season only.

Their technical crew has given them efficient assistance for several years now and forms a solid basis for all our engagements.  

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