The SAAF Forum

Does anyone know if the T-33a #TR-978 that was used to give SAAF pilots jet time before going onto F-86's was ever on "the books" of the SAAF ,or was it a USAF plane seconded to the SAAF?

Theuns

Hey Theuns,



I may be wrong but I think you'll find that the aircraft was neither on the books of the SAAF or seconded to the SAAF.

Regards,
Stratobat

Edit: Removed information from post that may be incorrect.

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'If the literal sense makes good sense, seek no other sense lest you come up with nonsense'

There is a really intersting story by sabre pilot on the link:
http://sabre-pilots.org/classics/v21convert.htm
In this distinct reference is made to the SA Government buying hours on T33 for training of pilots although serial number of T33 involved is not quoted. He also discusses squadron training etc
Cheers,
Doug

Having discussed this with Korean veterans, I can confirm that the SAAF purchased hours on the USAF T-33s in order to convert to the Sabre. Numerous T-33s were used as they just used whichever USAF aircraft was serviceable for the day.

Most of the instruction was on IF flight and the USAF instructors were most surprised that no instruction was required ... the SAAF pilots were already IF qualified on the Vampire jet before even coming to Korea!

Herewith another example:

Interesting read that!
I recon a T-33 with bokkie roundals would have looked nice

T

Hi.
Never had bokkies, but there is a profile of one with the SAAF fin flash that was used by 18 FBW in recognition
of the SAAF in Piet van Schalkwyk's article in SADF Colours and markings no 6.
One day I'll have to go and dig out all their serial no's in the logbooks.
We used a whole host of them.
Stefaan

Now that's interesting. Thanks, Stefaan

Regards,
Stratobat

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'If the literal sense makes good sense, seek no other sense lest you come up with nonsense'

Does anyone have this profile or know where I can see it online?

Cheers

I can confirm that TR-978 was used. My Father, John C. Carmichael (pictured on the right) served in Korea in the 67th FBS (Fighting Cocks) from '52-'53, first flying combat if the F-51 and then the F-86. He proudly served alongside the 2 Sq. Flying Cheetahs and formed strong friendships with them, often donning his yellow and green scarf given to him by his 2 Sq. mates. The gent on the left is Hal Colladay from the 4th FIS who helped with the transition to the F-86 by checking out flyers in the T-33.

Best regards,

Chris Carmichael

Welcome Chris and thanks for the photo.

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How come every time my ship comes in, I'm at the airport?

Great to see the SAAF (pre-1994) fin flash on that T-33; thanks to 'Kyrock' for sharing that picture here.

I also note that in the book 'The SAAF at War 1940-1984' by JS Bouwer and MN Louw, a picture on page 137 shows the T-33 jet trainer (TR-978) with explanatory notes confirming its training role for SAAF pilots in Korea.

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