The Alpha Jet is a two-seat tandem jet for training and tactical support, designed to meet a program established jointly by the French and German Air Forces.
The Alpha Jet was the first aircraft jointly produced by Dassault and Breguet. It was intended to succeed the Fouga-Magister and the Lockheed T 33.
The first flight of the prototype 01 took place at Istres on October 26, 1973, with Jean-Marie Saget at the controls. The aircraft proved to be very maneuverable and had no problems at transonic speeds.
The first production Alpha Jet E for the French Air Force, which ordered 175 of them, made its first flight at Istres on November 4, 1977, and entered operational service on January 30, 1979.
The Alpha Jet's performance and safety have made it the choice to replace the Fouga Magister of the Patrouille de France since 1981. For 40 years, they have successfully ensured the influence of the Patrouille de France. The aircraft has not undergone any fundamental modification. The only notable changes are the blue-white-red "livery", the nose light, the sight which has been removed and finally, the smoke container fixed under the belly. This one replaces the cannon container, thus allowing to leave in the sky this famous tricolor plume.