One of two two-seat Harriers to attend RIAT 2005 is this lovely black version in 899 Squadron colors, seen on the ramp just as you walk in from the red gate. What a well-maintained aircraft.
801 Squadron, RNAS Yeovilton, United Kingdom. British Aerospace Sea Harrier FA.2 seen here just prior to takeoff for a four-ship display at RIAT 2005, with its normally standard bolt-on refueling probe removed. Such a shame they've all been retired.
29(R) Squadron, RAF Coningsby, United Kingdom. Aside from a slightly subdued display thanks to a very close call the day before, it was still great to see the Typhoon in flight.
A fine example of Ejercito del Aire hardware seen on the RIAT 2005 static display line. Behind it can be seen a Danish Challenger, Greek RF-4E, German Atlantic, an RAF VC-10 tail and several others.
492nd Fighter Squadron, 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath, United Kingdom. The pilot in the front seat is showing the guy in the back just what approaches at Mildenhall are all about. You can see the back seater holding his arms up in enjoyment.
Polish Air Force Sukhoi Su-22UM-3K 'Fitter-G' sitting static at RIAT 2005, showing off her amazing tiger livery. It's a shame the 6ELT boys couldn't fly her during the display...also a shame that there were so many people around at one time.
Polish Air Force Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' silent on the ramp at CLF. This is the noisy end of the Fitter for sure...the afterburner makes a definite audible 'BANG' when engaged!
Polish Air Force Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' making the last 180-degree turn into the hardstand at CLF after another joint mission with the Royal Air Force's Jaguars. Many thanks to Mr. Jennings for the opportunity to get up close and personal.
Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' taxis back into the ramp at CLF after returning from another joint mission on the range with the Royal Air Force's Jaguars. Many thanks to Mr. Jennings for the opportunity to get up close and personal.
Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' on final to runway 22 at CLF after another joint mission at the range with the Royal Air Force's Jaguars. Speed brakes deployed, pilot concentrates on the last few feet of his landing run.
Polish Air Force Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' standing quietly between missions at CLF. This one has its squadron mascot on the nose, and a pair of shark-mouthed drop tanks under the outer wing hardpoints. What a fine piece of former-Soviet era hardware!
Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' taxis back into the ramp at CLF after returning from another joint mission on the range with the Royal Air Force's Jaguars. Many thanks to Mr. Jennings for the opportunity to get up close and personal.
Polish Air Force Sukhoi Su-22M-4 'Fitter-K' taxiing to the ramp after another joint flight with the Royal Air Force's Jaguars. Many thanks to Mr. Jennings for the opportunity to get up close and personal.
352nd Special Operations Group, RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom. This photo is dedicated to those that perished on sister-ship 0127, 'Wrath 11'. May they rest in peace.