The Thunderbirds are the aerobatic patrol of the US Air Force. Created in June 1953, they currently fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon. It is the oldest display team in the world, alongside the prestigious Patrouille de France, created in the same year.
The Thunderbirds' presentation program is performed by a patrol of 6 aircraft, and the strip lasts almost an hour ! They perform for people around the world to showcase the pride, precision and professionalism that is the U.S. Air Force. Through air shows and flyovers, they aim to enthuse and inspire.
The Thunderbirds were officially activated on June 1, 1953 as the 3600th Air Demonstration Team at Luke AFB, Arizona. Their first aircraft were F-84G Thunderjets... like a certain Patrouille de France, then they moved on to North American F-100C Super Sabre from 1956 to 1963, Republic F-105B Thunderchief in 1964, for only six performances, McDonnell F-4E Phantom II (1969-1973), Northrop T-38 Talon (1974-1982) and finally F16 since 1983.
In addition to their responsibilities as the USAF's official air demonstration team, the Thunderbirds are an integral part of the combat forces. Should the need arise, the team's personnel and aircraft can be quickly integrated into a combat unit at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. As the aircraft are only slightly modified, they can be combat-ready in less than 72 hours.
We are very pleased and proud to offer you this official collection, produced in close collaboration with the USAF.
Produced under official U.S. Air Force license.