Top photo: 35Sqdn Photo Unit.

One of the highlights of SAAF 75 was the fly past of the SAAF's Special Missions, Boeing 707-328C with two or three Cheetahs in a semi plugged formation. This flying display was the first public demonstration of this aircraft type to the general public!

Introduction:

The first modern aircraft of the SAAF with in-flight refuelling capability was the Buccaneer. The Mirage F1AZ  was delivered with a retractable in flight refuelling probe.  South Africa's military operations intensified as South Africa became more and more involved in the Border War Conflict. Due to the vast area and the combat radius of strike aircraft,  the SAAF experienced distance problems between the established air force bases and targets.

"Black" Project:

The obvious answer was in-flight refuelling and a subsequent "black" project was launched in the early '70's. Three 707s were purchased in March 1982. Much speculation surrounded the source of the aircraft and whether any of the 707s were retired South African Airways aircraft. This has been denied, but according to leading publications the aircraft were at least initially equipped in Israel (the SAAF has never confirmed or denied this) and later modifications and upgrades were done locally.

Another two aircraft were purchased and the fifth Boeing 707 is used as a freighter and for training. This aircraft has also been used extensively for deliveries of humanitarian aid throughout the African continent.