Singapore Airshow promises aerobatics spectacle
SINGAPORE — The Singapore Airshow 2016 will feature fighter jets from countries including Singapore, South Korea and the United States.
To be held from Feb 16 to 19 for trade professionals and Feb 20 to 21 for the public, the Airshow's aerobatics lineup will feature a mix of military assets from both the East and West. The Airshow today (Feb 14) provided a preview of its aerial display show at the Changi Exhibition Centre.
The headline act for public viewing will see the Republic of Singapore Air Force's (RSAF) F-15SG fighter jet and AH-64D Apache attack helicopter performing 11 moves, including a new "Vertical Punch" manoeuvre.
Also returning to perform is the Republic of Korea Air Force's Black Eagles Aerobatic Team, who have added three more manoeuvres to their repertoire from 2014.
Meanwhile the United States Air Force (USAF) will be showing off an array of fighter jets, bombers and cargo aircraft. Its well-known F‑16C/D Fighting Falcon will take to the skies, flexing its maneuverability and combat radius.
The USAF's long-range, heavy nuclear ordnance bomber B-52H Stratofortress is also slated to appear in a showcase of its high subsonic flying speed as well. Meanwhile, the new C‑17 Globemaster III cargo jet will round up the USAF segment.
Elsewhere, the French Air Force will trot out its Rafale, a twin-engine fighter which can reach full power in less than four seconds and scale an altitude of 40,000 feet within two minutes of take-off.
Neighbouring Malaysia will also participate in the aerial display with its SU‑30MKM fighter jet, known for the ability to carry heavy weapon loads up to 8,000kg over a large combat radius of more than 700 nautical miles. CHANNEL NEWSASIA
