The purpose of the demonstration is to highlight the SAAFs joint operations capability and ability to project air power. It is conducted with live weapons from both fixed and rotary winged assets.
The demonstration main theme is divided into several smaller scenarios that is performed in fron of the invited guests after a brief introduction of each phase. (the description below is how I remembered it, might not be exactly how it actually unfolded)
Background: The army is about to go on the offensive.
Scenario 1: Support is airlifted into the area by helicopter and transport aircraft.
Aviocar dropping cargo pallets.
Hercules dropping cargo pallets
Scenario 2: Recce run performed by Hawk with escort provided by JAS 39C Gripen.
Escort Gripen rolling in, armed with Mk 82 bombs.
Enemy infantry squads armed with MANPADS (smokey SAMs) started to engage the two aircraft.
Gripen releasing flares to counter SAM threat
Scenario 3: The Hawk is unfortunately shot down and a CSAR operation is initiated.
Air superioriity is gained by a two Gripens, engaging and shooting down an enemy fighter (played by a Hawk)
Gripen turning hard into the fight. The dogfight was performed at low level and quite impressive to follow with the Gripens pulling up to 8.5G. Take note that it is som 30 dgress and low humidity so to even get some condensation is somewhat impressive
End of a Hawk. The last moments of the ACM phase.
Pause in scenario: flypast by the two Gripens and the "downed" Hawk
Pause in scenario: Flypast by the two Gripens and the "downed" Hawk
The CSAR operation continues now with added support from Rooivalk attack helicopters
Rooivalk opens up with 20mm cannon
Pair of Rooivalks in position
BK117 bringing in Pathfinder troops while Rooivalks provides supporting fire
To be continued!
