IN PICTURES: Republic of Korea Air Force, the Black Eagles, take to the sky in Amesbury

Tuesday, 5 July 2022 01:00

MoD Boscombe Down has welcomed the 대한민국 공군(Republic of Korea Air Force)'s (ROKAF) Black Eagles to the Station, where they will be based to perform at UK air shows this summer.

This is ROKAF's first visit to the UK since 2012. During the visit, they will fly with the RAF Red Arrows, with both organisations eager to take full advantage of this unique opportunity to display together representing both nations.

Over the coming weeks, the pilots will also fly their T-50Bs, the aerobatic variant of the supersonic advanced jet trainer at the Southport Air Show, the Royal International Air Tattoo and the Farnborough International Air Show.

The Republic of Korea Air force, RoKAF Black Eagles display team and support team arrive at MoD Boscombe Down with their KAI T-50 jets, to be assembled, flight tested and flown in anticipation of their summer airshow circuit. © MOD Crown Copyright

Prior to departing Korea, the nine aircraft were disassembled and loaded onto three C-130s. The transport aircraft flew via Thailand and Türkiye before arriving at MOD Boscombe Down. In less than three weeks the aircraft have been reassembled, checked, certified and successfully air tested.

Images by Yvonne Timmins

Squadron Leader Carter, Officer Commanding Operations Squadron at MOD Boscombe Down said, "We are privileged to host the renowned Black Eagles at MOD Boscombe Down and it has been a really positive experience for the Whole Force team of DE&S, RAF and QinetiQ.

"Sharing details about our cultures, working practices and values has been fascinating. Visits such as these remind us of the strong relations we have with our overseas partners and the importance of working together."

The Republic of Korea Air force, RoKAF Black Eagles display team and support team arrive at MoD Boscombe Down © MOD Crown Copyright

The Korean Display Pilot added, "The Black Eagles are delighted to be back in the UK and have fond memories of their 2012 visit to the Waddington Airshow.

"This tour provides an opportunity for the Republic of Korea to show their gratitude to the UK veterans that fought in the Korean war between 1950 and 1953, where many lost their lives. The tour may be the last chance to show due respect and gratitude toward the UK veterans who may have may now be in their 90s."

Gallery photographs and featured image by Yvonne Timmins.