The Patrulla Águila (en. Eagle Patrol) is the Spanish Air Force’s official aerobatic team. It is the second Patrulla Acrobática Nacional: The Patrulla Ascua flew four North American F-86F Sabers for Spain from 1956 to 1965. The Patrulla Águila was founded in 1985 and has been stationed at the San Javier Air Force base near La Manga del Mar Menor ever since.
Originally it consisted of five, soon six, and from April 1988 up to seven pilots flying slightly modified models of the CASA C-101 Aviojet: In addition to a special paint job and the smoke systems important for aerobatic manoeuvrs, the aircraft also received larger tanks for a flight duration of up to seven hours. They have a high service ceiling of 14,000m and a top speed of 845km/h.
The squadron now has well over 25,000 flying hours under its belt and has taken part in air shows and numerous other events around the world in its role as Spain’s ambassador.
At AIRPOWER24, fans can look forward to one of the rather rare foreign appearances of the Spanish aerobatic team. Topping off their display is their unique synchronised ground manoeuvres which no other aerobatic team performs.
CASA C-101 Aviojet
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