ROYAL NORWEGIAN F-16S
Exactly 40 years after making an appearance at the very first Air Tattoo, the Royal Norwegian Air Force will be returning in strength this summer with aircraft representing both its past and present.
Two F-16 'Fighting Falcons' from 338 Sqn based at Orland Air Base, will be displaying with two de Havilland Vampires from the Royal Norwegian Air Force historic squadron.
This rarely-seen formation of two modern multi-role jet fighters alongside two historic warbirds from the dawn of jet aviation will provide one of the many highlights at this summer's Air Tattoo on July 16-17.
The RNoAF has a long association with the UK stretching back to the Second World War when five RAF squadrons were manned by Norwegians. The strong bonds of friendship that were established then still exist today.
Aircraft Operations Deputy Director Robert Windsor said he was keen to see as many air arms that took part in the frst Air Tattoo in 1971 return to mark the airshow's 40th anniversary.
He said: "The Norwegians' participation will give us an opportunity to thank them for their wonderful support during the past 40 years. Whilst they have sent aircraft for static display as recently as last year, it has been 12 years since they last took part in the Air Tattoo flying display so their visit this year will be eagerly anticipated."
In 1971, the Norwegians sent two Northrop F-5As to North Weald airfield for the first Air Tattoo, one for the flying display the other for static. The last time they participated at the Air Tattoo with a solo F-16 display was 1997. Two years later, however, a RNoAF Bell 412 helicopter took part in a special NATO 50th anniversary helicopter hover at RAF Fairford.
In addition to celebrating its 40th anniversary, this summer's Air Tattoo will also be hosting a gathering of specially-decorated 'Tiger' aircraft from the NATO Tiger Association. 'Tiger' aircraft come from NATO squadrons that have a Tiger or Big Cat in their emblem and their association marks its 50th anniversary in 2011
Established in Orland in 1954, the RNoAF's 338 Sqn is a NATO Tiger squadron and recent operations include providing close air support for NATO ground troops operating in Afghanistan.
The historic de Havilland Vampire was the second jet fighter to enter service with the RAF after the Gloster Meteor. Although it arrived too late to see combat during World War Two, the Vampire served with front line RAF squadrons until 1955 and continued in use as a trainer until 1966.
The Vampire was in use in Norway from 1948 to 1957 and one of the two displaying at RAF Fairford in July will be painted up in the markings of a Vampire T.55 serving with 336 Squadron – the Norwegians' first pure jet squadron. It will be flown by display pilot Kenneth Aarkvisla, a 48-year-old airline captain flying for Scandinavian Airlines.
