South Korean air display team stationed at Boscombe Down for the summer
The Black Eagles have already put on some spectacular local displays!
Last updated 5th Jul 2022
If you've noticed some extra noisy jets in the South Wiltshire skies in the last couple of days, there's nothing to worry about - in fact, they're very welcome!
The Black Eagles, the Republic of Korea's Air Force display team, are stationed at MOD Boscombe Down for the summer, while they're taking part in shows across the country.
It's the team's first visit to the UK since 2012 - and they've been practising their incredible displays over the skies of Amesbury and the surrounding area.
Children at Amesbury Archer Primary School came out of lessons to watch earlier:
Squadron Leader Carter, Officer Commanding Operations Squadron, MOD Boscombe Down, said:
"We are privileged to host the renowned Black Eagles at MOD Boscombe Down and it has been a really positive experience for the Whole Force team of DE&S, RAF and QinetiQ. Sharing details about our cultures, working practices and values has been fascinating. Visits such as these remind us of the strong relations we have with our overseas partners and the importance of working together."
During their stay in the UK, the team will be performing alongside the British Air Display Team, the Red Arrows, at events like the Southport Air Show, the Royal International Air Tattoo and the Farnborough International Air Show.
It's been a mammoth task to get the team over from South Korea too - with the nine aircraft being disassembled at home, flown in another aircraft via Thailand and Turkiye before having to be reassembled at Boscombe Down.
They've then been checked, certified and air tested here, ready for flights.
One of the Black Eagles pilot's said:
"The Black Eagles are delighted to be back in the UK and have fond memories of their 2012 visit to the Waddington Airshow. This tour provides an opportunity for the Republic of Korea to show their gratitude to the UK veterans that fought in the Korean war between 1950 and 1953, where many lost their lives. The tour may be the last chance to show due respect and gratitude toward the UK veterans who may have may now be in their 90s."