Expect heart-stopping aerobatics at next month's Singapore Airshow, which is set to boast a record four aerial display teams this year.
The Republic of Singapore Air Force's Black Knights will be joined by the Republic of Korea Air Force's Black Eagles and, for the first time, the Indonesian Air Force's (TNI-AU) Jupiter Aerobatic Team.
The Sunday Times also understands that stunt pilots from China's People's Liberation Army Air Force August 1st, or Bayi Aerobatics Team, are looking to make their Singapore debut at the biennial six-day event at Changi Exhibition Centre. The six-man team made its international debut at the Moscow Airshow last August, flying the J-10 aircraft.
If its participation is confirmed, this will be the biggest line-up of aerobatic display teams to take part in the 65-minute aerial display since the Singapore Airshow began in 2008.
There are also likely to be solo displays. The crowd-pleasing Black Knights last appeared in 2008 and will perform precision aerobatics in red and white F-16C Fighting Falcons, which will incorporate Singapore's national symbols of the crescent moon and five stars.
Mr Jimmy Lau, managing director of Experia Events, which is organising the Singapore Airshow, could not confirm the line-up to The Sunday Times as he is still in talks with the aerobatics teams.
However, he said: "What we can promise is an exciting show for all spectators who can expect a variety of aircraft and top-notch flying."
South Korea's Defence Acquisition Programme Administration said eight ace pilots will use the T-50B jet trainers to perform stunts once a day.
A TNI-AU spokesman told The Sunday Times that its Jupiter team will criss-cross the skies. It will only be the aerobatics team's second international outing, after the Brunei International Defence Exhibition last year.
This year's air show coincides with the RSAF's 45th anniversary.
To mark the occasion, the RSAF will set up a pavilion showcasing its history. Military buffs will also be able to see a ground display of 17 RSAF aircraft and weapon systems, including F-15 jets, naval helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Additional reporting by Zakir Hussein in Indonesia
