Jg71 Richthofen at home with Friends

BAe Systems also have a flying presence at Wittmund,operating the even older A-4 Skyhawk or "Scooter" as it is effectionately named carrying out tasking such as target towing to assist crews with their gunnery skills.
These aircraft would either have served with the US Navy or Israeli Air Force throughout their life before arriving here.

Pictured above and below are 2 of the A-4 Skyhawks operated from Wittmund by BAE Systems in the
target towing role.

The based squadron JG71 "Richthofen" were given the Honorary title of "Richthofen" by Federal President Lubke on the 21st of April 1961,the 43rd Anniversary of of the death of famed Luftwaffe Fighter Ace Manfred Von Richthofen better known as ......
The Red Baron!

Wittmund Airbase is located in Northern Germany and is on the frontline when it comes to intercepting pesky Russian Bears who come a calling down and over the North Sea.
Home to JG71 "Richthofen" the base is home to F-4 Phantoms a jet now getting on its years but is still a sight to behold for most aviation fans and photographers.
The jets are due to be finally retired in the next year or so, so on the 14th + 1th of September 2011 I managed to make a visit coincide with an exercise which was taking place throughout Germany.