Silver Falcons convert to Hawk jets
Date: 1 April 2013
By Dean Wingrin
The Silver Falcons, the official aerobatic team of the SAAF, has recently converted to the Hawk jet trainer.
Having flown the propeller-driven Pilatus PC-7 Mk II trainer for fourteen years, the esteemed aerobatic team will once again mount a jet aircraft. The team initially flew the jet-powered Impala Mk I from 1967 to 1997. After two years of dormancy, the Silver Falcons reformed with the PC-7 Mk II Astra in 1999.
However, the Astra turboprop trainer was much quieter (and smaller) than the previous jets, limiting the impact of the team. A new colour scheme was introduced in 2008 to make the team more presentable, while a sixth member was added last year to make a greater impression.
Now, the Unofficial SAAF Website can exclusively reveal that the aerobatic team has finally decided to convert to the modern Hawk jet.
Major Hofnar Isidenge, spokesman for the team, says that it is time the team made more of an impact on the airshow circuit.
“We would be so quiet when performing at an airshow, that the public were only aware we were displaying when they saw smoke coming from our aircraft and thought we were on fire,” Isidenge explained.
The SAAF acquired 24 BAE Systems Hawk Lead-In Fighter Trainer (LIFT) aircraft under the Strategic Arms Package and their use by the aerobatic tam will allow the general public to see them actually being used for the first time.
The Hawk jet, in their new Silver Falcon colour scheme, will allow airshow visitors to be aware of the aerial ballet being performed above their heads by the Silver Falcons as the jets are bigger, faster and louder.
“Besides,” Isidenge continued, “the Silver Falcons are proud avian raptors and it is only fitting that they fly an aircraft named after a bird of prey. PC-7 Mk II just doesn’t roll off the tongue as nicely.”
The Silver Falcons will be showing off their new Hawk jets when they participate at the SA Navy Festival from Friday 5 April to Sunday 7 April 2013 at Naval Base Simon’s Town, Cape Town.
Note: This article was originally written as an April Fools prank and should not be taken seriously.
