This established one-day event always has a maritime theme. This year it was a celebration of the Westland Lynx helicopter being the 40th anniversary of its first flight and still in production as the ‘Wildcat’. Numerous versions were on display including overseas naval variants from France and Germany and G-LYNX, holder of the world helicopter speed record.
Yeovilton is also home to the Fleet Air Arm Museum and its world class collection, its reputation for state of the art conservation demonstrated by the Grumman Martlet project that was highly visible to the many visitors. The Royal Navy Historic Flight is also co-located on this historic airfield.
This years overseas guests included a French Naval Rafale and Super Etendard though it was the arrival of two Polish Air Force MiG-29 Fulcrums that caught most enthusiasts eyes as most welcome guests. The weather was variable though the often dark skies presented a favorable background once the sun shone through.
Given the economic and military situation worldwide the event was well supported and ended with a spectacular ‘anti-insurgent’ helicopter assault well up to past standards.
