2 Squadron Weapons Camp - 2002
Date: 1 November 2002
2 Squadron, the SAAF's premier fighter squadron and known as the Flying Cheetahs, held it's annual weapons camp at AFB Langebaanweg during the first two weeks of November.
As a great gesture to the local West Coast community (and Cape Town enthusiasts!), the squadron held an 'open afternoon' on Wednesday, 13 November 2002, a day before they returned to their home base at Louis Trichardt. Two Cheetah C single-seat aircraft were positioned for easy access by the public, but the remaining seven Cheetah C and two Cheetah D two-seat aircraft were kept on the flight-line, away from the public. The Central Flying School contributed by providing an Astra and a demodified Oryx Mk2. Four Astra trainers used by the Silver Falcons were also positioned for easy photographic access.
The highlight of the show was a flying display by Cheetah C 369 which included a very slow, high Alpha flypast (helped, I'm sure, from the strong wind), followed by a fine display by the Silver Falcons. Although the crowd was small, the opportunity to inspect and photograph the aircraft without barriers and speak to the pilots and ground crew was appreciated by all.
Many thanks to Lt Col Greef, 2 Squadron and AFB Langebaanweg.
