RAF TYPHOON FLYS THE FLAG OVER ICONIC WHITE CLIFFS AHEAD OF BATTLE OF BRITAIN ANNIVERSARY
The Royal Air Force Typhoon Display team have retraced the footsteps of the heroic Battle of Britain pilots, known as the “The Few”, by flying over the white cliffs of the southern British coastline ahead of the anniversary of the Battle of Britain. The Typhoon, callsign Blackjack, which is based at RAF Coningsby made several passes along the landmark as part of their return flight from the south coast after a successful four days of displays at the Bournemouth Air Festival. The sortie provided essential training for Quick Reaction Alert, which is the pilots primary role based at RAF Coningsby. The aircraft was conducting a training exercise to intercept a low slow target in unfamiliar airspace.
Blackjack, formally known as Typhoon ZJ914, was unveiled to the world on May 28th, 2021, showcasing a striking livery that would become synonymous with its identity. Flight Lieutenant James Sainty had the honour of piloting Blackjack on its maiden flight, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the venerable aircraft. Despite its new livery, ZJ914 was an older airframe, categorized as a Tranche 1 Typhoon, a testament to its robust design and enduring legacy.
Throughout its service, ZJ914 bore the insignias of several distinguished squadrons, including 9, 17, and 41 squadrons. Notably, during its tenure with 9 Squadron, Blackjack donned a plain black livery accented with a green bat, embodying the role of an aggressor aircraft. This versatility and adaptability underscored the Typhoon’s capabilities and the RAF’s strategic prowess.
Constructed in early 2005, Blackjack was designated as a Typhoon FGR.4 and officially joined the ranks of the Royal Air Force on June 7th, 2005, under the identification ZJ914. Over nearly two decades, it has been a stalwart of the RAF, participating in numerous displays, exercises, and operational roles, earning its place in the annals of aviation history.
As Blackjack’s final flight drew to a close, the aircraft’s journey was celebrated and remembered by those who had the privilege of witnessing its prowess firsthand. The decision to retire and repurpose the aircraft for parts is a pragmatic one, ensuring that its legacy continues to support the operational readiness of the RAF’s current fleet of Typhoons.
The retirement of Blackjack marks the end of an era, but its contributions to the RAF and its indelible mark on aviation history will endure. As the aircraft is carefully dismantled at BAE Systems Warton Aerodrome, it serves as a reminder of the technological advancements and the dedicated personnel who have maintained and flown it over the years.
As we bid farewell to Blackjack, we celebrate its legacy and look forward to the future of aviation, inspired by the remarkable history of Typhoon ZJ914.
Hobbymaster 1/72nd scale Eurofighter Typhoon “Blackjack” ZJ914, RAF, 2021
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Richard.
Flying Tigers.