Ronneby Air Base Open Day

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Swedish military shows are famed for showing off the based aircraft but, despite being home to F17 with two divisions of JAS39 Gripens, only two flew in the show. Despite this disappointment, fair weather and historic exhibits created an attractive and eventful display.

The highlight was the mixed SAAB formation and solo displays comprising the J-29 Tunnan, J-37 Viggen, 105, Gripen and the long awaited 2-seat Draken following an 18 year return to flight. This tight formation highlighted the innovative wing shapes long associated with the indigenous SAAB family of military aircraft. The Viggen and Tunnan in particular were thrown about with considerable style. The J-32 Lansen on the main gate completed the full set of SAAB fighters.

The historic elements continued with a pair of Vampires in close formation, a group of Safir trainers and some T-6 Texans in private hands showing a variety of colour schemes now held in private hands.

A fair variety of helicopters completed the main military attendees with examples of recently delivered Agusta 109s and the larger NH90 now entering service with many European Air Arms. The Super Puma was also in evidence though it is due for replacement by Blackhawks in the future.

Peter Davison

About Peter Davison

Peter Davison is an aviation author and editor from the United Kingdom.