Thunderbirds

The Thunderbirds are the U.S. Air Forces' aerial demonstration team. Their home base is Nellis AFB, NV. The Thunderbirds were officially activated in 1953. Their first aircraft was the F-84G Thunderjet.

Thunderbirds Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon

The team converted to the F-16A in 1983, and to the F-16C in 1992. They have 12 F-16s (F-16C x 9, F-16D x 3). Six F-16s usually demonstrate flight techniques during an airshow.

In contrast with the Blue Angels, the team's personnel and aircraft can be rapidly integrated into a fighter unit if required. Since the aircraft are only slightly modified, such as installing a smoke-generating and the painting, they can be made combat-ready in less than 72 hours.

Columbus AFB, 2006/04