Patrouille Suisse to Fly Until 2027; Other Swiss Air Force Display Teams Face Changes, With Demonstrations Abroad Becoming Rare
Bern, Switzerland – Following recent announcements, the Swiss Air Force is set to implement significant changes to its display teams and demonstration schedules. The Swiss Ministry of Defense has confirmed that the Patrouille Suisse will continue flying with the F-5 Tiger until 2027, amidst ongoing debates about the squadron’s future. However, other display teams will see notable adjustments and demonstrations abroad will be planned only in exceptional cases moving forward.
The Swiss Air Force has decided to discontinue the F/A-18 Hornet Solo Display, alongside the Swiss Para Wings, effective January 1, 2025. In place of the Para Wings, the Parachute Reconnaissance Company 17 will showcase tactical parachute jumps on selected occasions, providing a glimpse into the strategic capabilities of Swiss airborne forces.
Patrouille Suisse
AXALP 2021
The Super Puma Display Team will shift its focus towards demonstrating advanced tactical air transport capabilities in the coming season. This strategic change underscores the significant versatility and operational importance of the Super Puma helicopters in various military scenarios, effectively showcasing their crucial roles in troop transport, logistics support, and emergency operations across diverse environments.
The PC-21 Solo Display, which was previously a rare sight during airshows, will now be featured more prominently in upcoming events. This inclusion aims to effectively demonstrate the rigorous advanced training of Swiss military pilots, while also emphasizing the modern and future-oriented approach to pilot education using the highly capable PC-21 aircraft. Through this display, audiences can expect to see a showcase of both skill and technology that represents the capabilities of contemporary military aviation training.
The PC-7 TEAM, widely recognized for its impressive precision and exceptional skill in aerial manoeuvres, will remain unchanged, continuing to showcase its stunning and captivating displays for aviation enthusiasts.
The Patrouille Suisse, a renowned emblem of Swiss national pride and exceptional aerial artistry, will continue to grace the skies until 2027. Established in 1964, this illustrious squadron has not only become a symbol of military excellence but also a testament to teamwork and precision, captivating audiences with its intricate and spellbinding manoeuvres executed with the agile F-5E Tiger II jets. Despite facing recent financial concerns and a narrow committee vote against its continuation, the team nonetheless remains a vital ambassador for the Swiss Air Force, promoting national pride while engaging with communities through a series of performances and educational outreach initiatives that inspire and entertain.
The decision to potentially discontinue Patrouille Suisse has sparked debate, with supporters emphasizing its role in fostering national identity and inspiring future aviators. The squadron’s meticulous planning and execution, backed by a dedicated support team, underscore its commitment to excellence.
In alignment with the Defense Group’s austerity measures, the overall number of demonstrations and exhibitions will be significantly reduced by half. This strategic decision aims to effectively allocate more flight hours for essential operational missions and comprehensive pilot training, thereby ensuring the Swiss Air Force’s ongoing operational readiness and overall efficiency.
This recent news signifies that the Swiss Air Force will become an increasingly rare sight at various airshows, particularly in international events, and especially during the exciting and polished flying displays for which the Swiss Air Force display teams were well known and that audiences have come to eagerly enjoy over the years.
