Royal Air Force of Oman gets new fighter, trainer jets

Within the framework of the Royal care and interest accorded by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces to the Sultan Armed Forces (SAF) to enhance their ability and role in protecting the country and maintaining the achievements made during the Blessed Renaissance, Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs on Monday presided over launching the first group of Typhoon aircraft fighters and Hawk (MK166) training aircraft.

The launching ceremony was held at Warton Airbase in Lancaster County in the United Kingdom (UK). 

The aircraft are the first of a group of the same aircraft, which the Sultanate agreed to purchase from BAE System of UK.

The typhoon is one of the modern multi-tasking fighting aircraft as it is equipped with advanced systems that give it high capacity. The aircraft is also equipped with advanced weapon systems that qualify it to operate under different conditions.

The Hawk training aircraft are advanced jet training aircraft that are used in many training fields with jets. The aircraft are expected to contribute to graduating high quality trainees. The design of the aircraft is also equipped with modern systems that meet needs of training fighters’ pilots.

The introduction of this generation of aircraft comes as part of the upgrading and development plans for the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) and other SAF corps during the blessed era of His Majesty the Sultan.

The remainder aircraft will be delivered as per the pre agreed timetable.

The launching ceremony was attended by Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Hinai, Sultanate’s Ambassador to the UK, Air Vice Marshal Mattar bin Ali Al Obaidani, RAFO Commander, senior SAF officers accompanying the Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs and senior officials at the UK Ministry of Defence.

Source: Timesofoman