RIAT 2024: Aircraft from Qatar, Jordan and Hungary announced
The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) is one of the most prestigious airshows in the world, attracting aviation enthusiasts from around the globe. The organizers of RIAT 2024 have recently announced further aircraft from Qatar, Jordan, and Hungary for the event.
The upcoming air show is set to be exciting, featuring a range of aircraft from Qatar, Jordan, and Hungary. A notable feature of the show is that some of these aircraft will be making their debut appearance at the European Airshow, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.
One of the main attractions of the air show will be the Qatar Emiri Air Force's static display as they celebrate their 50th anniversary this year. They will be sending a variety of exciting aircraft to RIAT 2024, which is sure to captivate and awe attendees.
The C-17 Globemaster, an impressive heavy-lift transport aircraft, will be the centrepiece of their static display area. This aircraft is capable of transporting large and heavy equipment, making it an impressive sight to behold.
In addition to the C-17, other aircraft on display will include a Hawk from RAF Leeming and a Typhoon from BAE Systems at Warton. Attendees will also get the opportunity to see the first appearance of the Qatari NH90 NFH at a European Airshow, which will be transported through C-17 to the UK for RIAT.
The organizers of the air show are hoping to have an extra Typhoon from 12 Squadron, the joint RAF/Qatari squadron at RAF Coningsby, join this static display. Confirmation of this is expected at a later date.
Qatari Hawk at RIAT 2023
Another country participating in RIAT this year is Jordan. They have made an impressive contribution to the event, with the Royal Jordanian Air Force sending a number of aircraft. For the flying display, they will be sending the Royal Jordanian Falcons, which is a display team renowned for their impressive aerial manoeuvres. Additionally, one of their Hercules aircraft will be on static display. The Jordanian Air Force is planning to bring one of their newly acquired ex-USAF airframes, which is an exciting addition to the event. However, the most anticipated highlight of the Royal Jordanian Air Force's participation is the appearance of a pair of F-16 Fighting Falcons. These aircraft will appear at RIAT for the first time and join the 50th anniversary celebrations of this type. The Jordanian Air Force is planning to send one single-seat and one twin-seat jet to join the Viper Line on static display during the weekend.
In addition to Jordan's participation, the Hungarian Air Force is also making a return to the event with their JAS-39C Gripen solo display. This advanced fighter aircraft is a crowd-pleaser and will undoubtedly thrill the audience with its impressive speed, agility, and precision. The display sequence of the Gripen is expected to be highly impressive and a highlight of the flying display.
If you're interested in attending the event, you can visit airtatto.com to learn more about it and purchase your tickets.
Jordanian Hercules at RIAT 2023
Qatar Emiri Air Force NH 90NFH
The NH90 is a versatile helicopter that has been designed to perform multiple roles. It is available in two main versions - the TTH (Tactical Transport Helicopter) and NFH (NATO Frigate Helicopter). Developed as a partnership between France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal, the NH90 first took to the skies in 1995, and it entered service in 2007. At present, 13 nations operate different variants of the NH90.
The Qatar Emiri Air Force has placed an order for 28 NH90s, which will be split between the two main versions - TTH and NFH. The TTHs started being delivered in 2021, while the NFHs will follow in early 2022. The deliveries of all the helicopters are expected to be completed by 2025. The entire NH90 fleet will be based at the Doha International Air Base, which shares facilities with Doha International Airport.
At this year's Air Tattoo, the 8th Squadron of Flying Wing 2 will be showcasing a single NH90 helicopter. The variant of the helicopter has not been specified. The helicopter is expected to arrive inside a C-17, which is another aircraft that is being provided by the Qatar Emiri Air Force for static display. The helicopter and the aircraft will be parked together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Qatar Emiri Air Force.
Qatari NH 90NFH (Anthony Peach, Airbus Copyright)
Qatar Emiri Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon is a multi-role combat aircraft developed by four countries - the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The aircraft boasts high performance and has been subject to constant upgrades throughout its service life. It achieved its first flight in March 1994, and the deliveries to partner nations began in August 2003.
The Typhoon is a versatile aircraft that can perform both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, making it an essential asset to any air force. It can carry a variety of weapons, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, and bombs. One of its most notable weapons is the Meteor long-range air-to-air missile, which is widely considered to be one of the best in the world.
Several countries operate the Typhoon, including Austria, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the partner nations. The Typhoon has seen combat action over Libya during 2010 and 2011 and has been a vital asset to air forces worldwide ever since.
In December 2017, Qatar ordered 24 Eurofighter Typhoons, and the agreement included the establishment of a joint training squadron on the type at RAF Coningsby. Here, instructors from 12 Squadron train Qatari pilots to fly the Typhoon. The unit also deployed to Qatar during the 2022 World Cup to provide air defense for the competition.
To mark the 50th anniversary of the Qatari air force, Qatar will be exhibiting one of their Typhoons as part of this year’s Air Tattoo static display. The aircraft in question will be provided by BAE Systems from their Warton production line in Lancashire, where the aircraft will be awaiting delivery to the Qatari Emiri Air Force. The Typhoon will be displayed alongside other Qatari aircraft, showcasing Qatar's air force's capabilities.
Qatari Typhoon
Qatar Emiri Air Force Hawk Mk.167
The BAE Systems Hawk, a highly successful advanced jet trainer, was designed and built in the UK. It was developed by Hawker Siddeley, and its first flight was in 1974. Two years later, in 1976, it was introduced into service with the RAF to replace the Folland Gnat T.1.
Thanks to its superb design, the Hawk has been purchased by 19 different nations in various forms. In the late 1980s, an updated version of the Hawk was created, known as the Hawk 100 series. This model featured a modern avionics system, a modified airframe, new wings, and greater combat capabilities. Deliveries of this model began in 1993.
The Hawk 100 was later improved upon with the development of the Hawk 120 series, also called the Lead In Fighter, in the late 1990s. South Africa and Australia were among the countries that ordered this model. The Hawk 120 series had advanced capabilities, including night vision, forward-looking infrared (FLIR), and a helmet-mounted display.
Since 2008, India has also been producing the Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer under license, which is flown by the Surya Kiran, the Indian Air Force display team. The Hawk has proven to be an incredibly versatile aircraft, perfect for both basic and advanced pilot training. Its cockpit is equipped with a head-up display, hands-on throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls, and a modern glass cockpit.
In 2018, Qatar ordered the Hawk Mk167, also known as the Hawk T2A, and the first aircraft was delivered in September 2021. Qatar currently has a fleet of nine Hawks that are stationed in the UK at RAF Leeming, where they are flown by a joint Qatari/RAF training unit. The Hawk Mk167 is equipped with modern avionics and a digital cockpit, making it an ideal training platform for pilots.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Qatari Emiri Air Force, a pair of Hawk Mk167 trainers will be sent for static display this year. The aircraft will be provided by the 11th Squadron QEAF and will be parked with other Qatari aircraft. The Hawk Mk167 has a maximum speed of Mach 0.84 and a range of 2,520 kilometers, making it a highly capable aircraft.
Qatari Hawk
Qatar Emiri Air Force C-17A Globemaster III
The Boeing C-17A Globemaster III is a large four-engined strategic transport aircraft that serves as the primary air lift force of the US Air Force. The aircraft can carry a payload of up to 77 tons and has a range of 4,482 nautical miles. The C-17's cargo compartment can accommodate a wide range of vehicles, including tanks, helicopters, and other large military equipment.
The aircraft traces its roots back to the McDonnell Douglas YC-15 demonstrator that won the C-X contract in the early 1980s. The C-17 was initially developed by McDonnell Douglas, which later merged with Boeing in 1997. The C-17 has been designed to operate from short and narrow airfields, utilizing advanced blown air flaps that give it exceptional STOL performance. Additionally, the aircraft can operate from unpaved airstrips, which the USAF practices in the Nevada desert frequently.
The Transport Wing Qatari Emiri Air Force's 10th Transport Squadron operates eight C-17s for Qatar from Al Udeid Air Base. These aircraft have been used for various missions, including humanitarian aid, peacekeeping, and military operations. Four C-17s were initially ordered by Qatar, with the first being delivered in 2009. In 2015, Qatar ordered another four from the final five C-17s that Boeing built without a buyer, known as the White Tail C-17s. One aircraft is painted in the national airline's livery, Qatar Airways.
The Qatar Emiri Air Force will provide one of their C-17s for static display at this year's Air Tattoo. The aircraft is expected to attract a lot of attention, as it showcases the cutting-edge capabilities of modern military transport aircraft. If possible, the aircraft provided will bear Qatar Airways' branding and will also transport an NH90NFH for static display. The C-17 and NH90 will be displayed together with other aircraft from Qatar to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their air force. Visitors to the event will have the opportunity to see these aircraft up close and learn more about their capabilities and the role they play in modern military operations.
Qatari C-17
Royal Jordanian Air Force Hercules
The Lockheed Hercules, also known as the C-130, is a versatile military transport plane that has served many nations worldwide for over 68 years. This four-engine aircraft has been used extensively by NATO and other countries for a variety of purposes, including transport, gunship operations, search and rescue missions, scientific research, aerial refuelling, electronic combat, and maritime patrol.
Despite being in production for several decades, the C-130 is still in use today, with the C-130J Super Hercules being the latest version. The RAF was the first customer to receive the C-130J Super Hercules in 1995, and it continues to receive new orders. However, the RAF retired its fleet in June 2023, bringing an end to a long-standing relationship with this iconic aircraft.
The Royal Jordanian Air Force is one of the many air forces that utilize the C-130. They operate a mixed fleet of seven C-130H and three C-130E models, all based with 3 Squadron, which was formed on the type in 1959. Recently, three of the C-130H models operated by the squadron were received from the US Air Force under the Ramp to Ramp (R2R) program. This program allows the US Air Force to transfer airworthy C-130 airframes directly following a decision to cap the number of C-130 in the United States inventory.
The Royal International Air Tattoo is an annual event that attracts aviation enthusiasts from all over the world. The Royal Jordanian Air Force has been a regular participant in the event for several years. This year, they will send one of their C-130H Hercules aircraft to appear on static display. The Royal Jordanian Air Force won The Northrop Grumman Trophy at RIAT 2023 as the runner-up of the Concours d'Elegance competition. It is anticipated that one of the R2R examples will be the aircraft that will be appearing this year.
Jordanian Hercules
Royal Jordanian Falcons
The Royal Jordanian Falcons is an esteemed national display team of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The team was founded in 1976 and has been entertaining audiences with their aerial acrobatics for over four decades. The team started with the Pitts S-2A Special aerobatic biplane and later upgraded to the Extra EA300 in 1992. This aircraft provided the team with better performance and manoeuvrability, allowing them to perform more daring stunts.
In 2007, the team once again upgraded to the Extra 300L, which is considered one of the best aerobatic aircraft in the world. This aircraft is known for its exceptional handling and precision, which helped the team perform even more complex and breathtaking manoeuvres.
Since 2018, the Royal Jordanian Falcons have been flying the Extra 3330LX, a more powerful two-seat aircraft that enables the team to perform even more daring and jaw-dropping stunts. This aircraft is equipped with a 330-horsepower engine and is designed specifically for aerobatic displays.
It's worth noting that the Royal Jordanian Falcons is a joint civil-military organization. The pilots are selected from the Royal Jordanian Air Force, and they undergo rigorous training to acquire the necessary skills to perform aerial acrobatics. The aircraft, on the other hand, are owned and maintained by Royal Jordanian Airlines, which ensures that they are always in top condition for every performance.
Royal Jordanian Air Force F-16
The General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon is a popular combat aircraft used widely in NATO. The aircraft was initially designed for the United States Air Force as a daytime fighter. Since then, it has evolved into a multi-role combat aircraft that is highly capable and efficient. Despite its first flight being in 1974, it is still in production today and has seen over 4,500 units produced in the last 49 years. Approximately 3,000 of these units are still in active service with 25 countries around the world.
The most recent version, the Block 70/72, has many upgraded features such as a new cockpit, advanced computers, and an AESA radar system based on the one used in the F-35. The Block 70/72 is a high-performance variant that is capable of performing various missions such as air-to-air engagements, air-to-ground attacks, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
Jordan has been a loyal customer of the F-16 Fighting Falcon for many years. In 1997, Jordan received its first F-16 A/B Block 15 ADF (Air Defense Fighter) variant from retired US stock. Since then, Jordan has received further deliveries of ADF variants from the US, as well as updated F-16AM and BM MLU (Mid Life Update) variants from Belgium and the Netherlands. Jordan has acquired a total of 79 A/B model F-16s, most of which have been upgraded to the MLU standard. The Royal Jordanian Air Force has recently used its F-16 fleet as part of the ongoing international operation against ISIS in Syria. In early 2023, Jordan signed a contract to acquire a number of new-build Block 70 F-16s from Lockheed Martin.
The Royal Jordanian Air Force has been a strong supporter of the Royal International Air Tattoo and has regularly displayed a C-130 Hercules and the Royal Jordanian Falcons in the flying display. However, the last time they sent fast jet combat aircraft to an Air Tattoo was in 1989, and to the Air Tournament International at RAF Boscombe Down in 1990. As a result, we are excited to announce that the Royal Jordanian Air Force will be supporting our celebration of 50 years of the F-16 by providing a pair of F-16 Fighting Falcons for static display at RIAT 2024. The aircraft on display will include a single-seat F-16AM and a two-seat F-16BM. It is an excellent opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to see the aircraft up close and learn more about its capabilities.
Jordanian F-16
Hungarian Gripen
The SAAB JAS 39 Gripen is a state-of-the-art, lightweight, multi-role fighter aircraft, developed indigenously by Sweden to replace the older Draken and Viggen planes in the Swedish Air Force. The Gripen is equipped with the latest technology and features advanced avionics, including a sophisticated radar and electronic warfare systems, which provide the pilot with superior situational awareness. The aircraft is also designed for easy maintenance and has a low operating cost, making it a cost-effective solution for many air forces around the world.
The Gripen is powered by the Volvo RM12 turbofan engine, which is a licensed version of the General Electric F404 engine that powers the original F-18 Hornet planes. This engine provides the aircraft with a top speed of Mach 2 and a range of over 3,000 kilometers. The Gripen is also designed to operate from short runways, as short as 500 meters, including those covered in snow. This makes the aircraft highly flexible and able to operate from a wide range of airfields, including those in remote or austere environments.
The Gripen has been in production since 1993, with the JAS 39A being the first model to be delivered. The upgraded JAS 39C was introduced in 2003, and features improved avionics, a stronger frame and undercarriage, and a heavier payload. The latest version of the aircraft, the JAS 39E, was developed in partnership with Brazil and features further advancements in avionics, as well as a more powerful engine, the F414 engine, which is the same one used in the Super Hornet.
Hungarian Gripen
Hungary signed a lease for 14 JAS-39A/B Gripens in 2003, which were to be upgraded to JAS-39C/D standard before delivery. Although Hungary had the option to purchase the planes, they continued to extend the lease whenever possible. In 2021, Hungary decided to modernize their Gripens with better software, a new radar, and more advanced weapons like the IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missile. This upgrade will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Hungarian Air Force and ensure that their Gripens remain a viable and potent force for years to come.
The 59th Tactical Wing, also known as the Pumas, based at Kecskemét Air Base, will provide one JAS-39C Gripen for this year's Air Tattoo flying display. The Pumas are one of the most experienced squadrons in the Hungarian Air Force and have been operating the Gripen since 2006. The Hungarian demo pilot will showcase the Gripen's exceptional manoeuvrability and agility, as well as it’s advanced avionics and weapons systems.
