The highly anticipated Southport Airshow, set for the 13th and 14th of July 2024, will proudly host the Royal Navy Black Cats display team, showcasing their renowned pairs display. This year, the Black Cats are scheduled to perform at numerous events, but their iconic pairs display will be reserved for only a select few, including the prestigious Royal International Air Tattoo and the Southport Airshow.

The Black Cats Helicopter Display Team operates the cutting-edge Leonardo Wildcat HMA2, an aircraft celebrated for its versatility and advanced capabilities. Based at the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, the team comprises highly skilled pilots who have undergone extensive training to master their dynamic and intricate routines. Their display is characterized by energetic formation flying and opposition manoeuvres, promising a thrilling spectacle for attendees.

The Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland) AW159 Wildcat represents a significant evolution from the Westland Super Lynx, featuring modern enhancements and capabilities. The Wildcat is available in two primary variants: a battlefield support version and a maritime support version, both of which share structural and airframe commonality. This design allows for cost-effective production, either as new builds or by utilizing Lynx/Super Lynx airframes as donors, with the Wildcat sharing approximately 5% of its parts with its predecessors. Beyond the UK, the Wildcat is also in service with the Republic of Korea Navy and the Philippine Navy.

The UK has procured 34 Wildcats for the Army and 28 for the Royal Navy, intended to replace the ageing Lynx helicopters in both services. The Army variant designated the Wildcat AH1, is primarily employed for battlefield reconnaissance and transport missions. Meanwhile, the naval version, the Wildcat HMA2, serves in transport roles and is also equipped for anti-surface warfare, particularly when deployed from naval vessels. The Wildcat HMA2 is outfitted with a sea-scanning radar and can be armed with up to 20 Martlet short-range missiles and 4 Sea Venom heavy strike anti-surface missiles. Notably, in September 2022, a Wildcat HMA2 successfully laser-designated a target, which was subsequently struck by an RAF Typhoon using a Paveway IV bomb, demonstrating the aircraft’s advanced targeting capabilities.

The inclusion of the Royal Navy Black Cats and their Wildcat HMA2 helicopters at the Southport Airshow will undoubtedly be a highlight, showcasing the prowess and precision of these state-of-the-art aircraft and their highly trained crews. Attendees can look forward to an impressive display of aerial skill and technological sophistication, making the Southport Airshow an event not to be missed.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Southport Airshow’s official website by clicking here.