The Royal Navys Sharks Gazelle
by Gordon James
Title
The Royal Navys Sharks Gazelle
Artist
Gordon James
Medium
Photograph - Photography Digital
Description
The "Sharks" were the Royal Navy's Helicopter Display Team from 1975 to 1992. They initially flew six red Westland
Gazelle Helicopters. with aircraft and pilots drawn from 705 Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall. After a mid-air collision between two aircraft in June 1977, the team size was reduced to four aircraft.
The "Sharks" display routine was renowned for mixing together a range of different manoeuvres, comprising close formation, synchronised, opposition and solo flying. The display typically lasted for 10-12 minutes, and was highlighted by the use of distinctive mix of red and green smoke.
The team operated successfully for the best part of two decades, appearing at airshows and events around the UK and near Europe.[1]They were regulars at the largest shows such as the International Air Tattoo, Farnborough Airshow, as well as Royal Navy-organised events and the British Grand Prix.
The team were disbanded in 1992 due to Royal Navy operational and budgetary commitments. Despite this, the Royal Navy Helicopter Display Team title was maintained until the end of 1996 as 705 NAS continued to provide a pair of Gazelles known simply as the "Gazelle Pair" (although in 1995 a special four-aircraft team was resurrected for a handful of events). With the retirement of the Gazelle from Royal Navy service, the Royal Navy Helicopter Display Team was finally disbanded in 1996.
Uploaded
November 10th, 2020
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