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2010 RAF Hawk Display Scheme Revealed Global Aviation Resource is delighted to exclusively reveal the chosen colour scheme for the 2010 RAF Hawk display aircraft.
After months of planning, design and consultation with colleagues and aviation enthusiasts, Flt Lt Tom Saunders has given GAR the green-light to publish the paint scheme that he has chosen to adorn his 2010 display airframes. The scheme has been approved by senior commanders at RAF Valley and subject to some final administration, the paint shop will start work on the two jets within the next few weeks.
A variation on those which have been the subject of lively debate on the internet for the past few weeks, the scheme commemorates the 50th Anniversary of 4 FTS (Flying Training School) at RAF Valley. Special display schemes have become a long-standing tradition for the solo Hawk display and some older readers may even recall the Union Jack tailed jets which displayed on the airshow circuit as far back as 1986. There have been many variations over the years but the Union Jack itself has featured on many of the Hawk's display schemes and that chosen for 2010 is no exception.
Speaking exclusively to Global Aviation Resource, display pilot Flt Lt Tom Saunders said:
"I'm delighted to finally confirm the proposed colour scheme for the aircraft and I'm confident that the finished product is certain to turn heads this season.
"The 50th anniversary of 4 FTS is a hugely significant one for everyone at RAF Valley and my job now is to ensure that my display shows the artwork in its best light and also pays a suitable tribute to everyone involved with 4 FTS over the past half century. It's a big responsibility but one that I am looking forward to meeting.
"It's a very special priviledge to be able to design your own paint scheme and it has been very difficult to find something original that lives up to the schemes we have seen in previous years - especially Matt Barker's 2009 scheme.
"I wanted my design to echo the red white and blue that was seen on the 1970s and 1980s Hawks whilst remaining modern and exciting. I was keen to ensure that there was something special to look at from every angle and you will also notice a tribute to the unofficial emblem of 208 Squadron - the 'Eye of Horus' or 'Flying Shufti'. It is a shame to lose the logo of the RAFBF this year but we will continue to dedicate our fund raising effort to the worthy charity."
Global Aviation Resource recently published a lengthy feature on a day in the life of 208 Squadron at RAF Valley after a visit to the Station in December; a feature which took a close look at Tom's 'day job', namely that of an instructor on the RAF's training programme for future fast jet pilots. We're now looking forward to following Tom's progress throughout the 2010 airshow season and wish him and the members of his team all the best for a successful year.
Global Aviation Resource would like to thank Flt Lt Tom Saunders and Tom would like to thank Jo Gough, design consultant for her ideas and Computer Aided Design imagery. Please visit the Hawk Display website at
www.rafhawkdisplay.com for more news and pictures.
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