Patrouille Suisse

About the Team

The Patrouille Suisse is a distinguished aerobatic demonstration team of the Swiss Air Force, based at Emmen Air Base. Since its establishment in 1964, the team has become a symbol of Swiss aerial prowess, showcasing the efficiency, precision, and readiness of the Swiss Air Force through breathtaking aerial displays that typically last around 18 minutes. The team flies six Northrop F-5E Tiger II fighter/bomber jets, each painted in the national colors of white and red, creating a striking visual spectacle in the sky.

The composition of the team includes six highly skilled demonstration pilots, a spare pilot, two commentators, and a dedicated support crew of no fewer than 35 technicians. The selection process for new pilots is notably rigorous, requiring candidates to possess impeccable flying records and extensive experience. The pilots of the Patrouille Suisse are regarded as the finest military aviators in the Swiss Air Force, with backgrounds that encompass a range of aircraft, including F/A-18s and PC-21s. This diverse experience contributes to the team’s remarkable ability to perform complex maneuvers with precision and grace.

Since 1994, Emmen Air Base has served as the home base for the Patrouille Suisse, following their previous stationing at Dübendorf military airfield. The team has a rich tradition of collaboration and often performs joint flypasts with other prestigious teams. Notable partnerships include appearances alongside the PC-7 team, the Hornet Solo Display Team, and the Super Puma Display Team at significant air shows such as the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) and Air14. A highlight in their recent history occurred on September 7, 2014, when the Patrouille Suisse executed a full aerobatic display in concert with the PC-7 Team during the AIR14 event in Payerne, captivating audiences with their synchronized flight.

Team Overview

About the aircraft

The Northrop F-5E Tiger II is a supersonic light fighter aircraft that evolved from the original F-5A and F-5B Freedom Fighter variants, designed by Northrop Corporation in the late 1950s. Introduced in 1972, the F-5E featured significant upgrades, including more powerful General Electric J85 engines, increased fuel capacity, and enhanced aerodynamic design for improved maneuverability. With advanced avionics, including air-to-air radar, the F-5E was primarily intended for day air superiority but also proved to be a capable ground-attack platform. Its affordability and operational efficiency made it a popular choice among U.S. allies during the Cold War, with over 1,400 units produced before the end of production in 1987.

The F-5E Tiger II has been utilized extensively in various roles, including combat operations during the Vietnam War, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness. Additionally, variants such as the RF-5 Tigereye were developed for reconnaissance missions, highlighting the aircraft’s adaptability. The design of the F-5 also laid the groundwork for future fighter aircraft, influencing the development of the Northrop YF-17 and the F/A-18 Hornet. The F-5E remains an important part of military aviation history, representing a successful balance of performance, cost-effectiveness, and operational capability.

Team History

The origins of the Patrouille Suisse can be traced back to 1959, when the Air Force Surveillance Wing, operating Hawker Hunter Mk. 58 fighters, began training a double patrol for display purposes. This initiative was initially aimed at enhancing the visibility of the Air Force during the national exhibition Expo64 in Lausanne and the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Swiss Air Force. As the training progressed, the double patrol evolved into a full-fledged aerobatic team, performing formation flights that delighted thousands of spectators across Switzerland. It was during this formative period that the name “Patrouille Suisse” spontaneously emerged, inspired by the renowned French Patrouille de France.

The team’s first official season in 1965 saw them participating in four air shows, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition of aerial excellence. Over the years, the program underwent constant refinement, with an emphasis on perfecting the precision of individual maneuvers. By 1970, the team expanded to include an additional Hawker Hunter, further enhancing their display capabilities. However, due to Switzerland’s policy of neutrality, the team was initially restricted from performing abroad. This changed in 1978 when the Patrouille Suisse received an invitation to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Patrouille de France, allowing them to showcase their skills over Salon-de-Provence, France, with a six-aircraft formation.

In 1991, the Patrouille Suisse made a significant visual statement by debuting a dedicated livery for the 700-year anniversary of the Swiss Confederation. This new design featured the Swiss national colors, red and white, prominently displayed on the lower sides of the wings. The team transitioned from Dübendorf Air Base to Emmen Air Base in 1992, solidifying their presence at their current home. The year 1994 marked the end of the Patrouille Suisse’s displays on the Hawker Hunter Mk. 58, and in 1995, the team transitioned to the faster and more advanced F-5E Tiger II, which had been in service with the Swiss Air Force since 1978.

In a notable development in April 2007, the team introduced a PC-6 Turbo Porter, affectionately named “Felix,” to support their operations. This aircraft, painted in the team’s colors, is flown by the commander to facilitate travel alongside the speaker and cameraman to various training and display locations. The commander also uses the aircraft to monitor the displays from the ground. The name “Felix” pays tribute to the former callsign of the team’s ground station, which was responsible for overseeing the displays.

The year 2014 was particularly significant as the Patrouille Suisse celebrated its 50th anniversary, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Swiss Air Force. The celebrations culminated in the AIR14 air show held at Payerne, which featured an impressive lineup of the best European military display teams and solo performances. The Swiss Air Force has operated the F-5E/F Tiger II since 1978, and despite various restructuring efforts and budgetary constraints, a decision made in 2016 allowed for the continuation of a reduced F-5 fleet for adversary training and target tug duties. This decision ensures that the Patrouille Suisse will maintain its aerial legacy, with plans to continue flying until 2027, thrilling audiences with their exceptional displays for years to come.

Did You Know?

• The Patrouille Suisse, an aerobatic team of the Swiss Air Force, was founded in 1964 and is known for its impressive 18-minute displays.
• The team operates six Northrop F-5E Tiger II fighter jets, which are painted in the Swiss national colors of red and white.
• The Patrouille Suisse has performed alongside other teams, such as the PC-7 team and the Hornet Solo Display Team, during major air shows.
• The team’s home base has been Emmen Air Base since 1994, after previously being stationed at Dübendorf military airfield.
• The Patrouille Suisse celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2014, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Swiss Air Force.