Top photo: D. Becker Collection, original article: C. Hugo.

It is important to note that the SAAF operated two different versions of the Sabre. The first variant, the F-86F was used exclusively in the Korean conflict. These aircraft were returned to the USA after the war and NONE were ever, operated in South Africa. The second variant, the Canadair CL-13 Sabre Mk. 6 was  used by the SAAF in South Africa. This aspect, coupled with the wing issue, caused some heated discussions at modelling competitions in the past. However, a SAAF Sabre is a fascinating project. It is hoped, this information article will highlight all the different aspects in order to build, accurate models of the different SAAF Sabre variants - Administrator.  

The first jet fighter to be flown operationaly by the SAAF was the de Havilland Vampire. The second jet fighter flown and also the first 'modern' jet fighter, was the North American F-86 Sabre. The Sabre was the SAAF's, first jet aircraft to be flown as a operational fighter. This aircraft was originally delivered No. 2 Sqdn "The Flying Cheetahs" when they were operational in Korea in support of the UN Forces against the North Korean invasion, forces. At the end of the Korean war, all the Sabres were returned to the UASF. Upon their return to South Africa, No. 2 squadron  received de Havilland Vampires and none of the Korean Sabres were ever operated in South Africa. During 1956  the Sabre started replacing the Vampire. The new Sabres were Canadian built versions of the F86F Sabres. When the SAAF looked at the Sabre as a replacement, the Canadian variant was, at the time - the most advanced and modern variant.  These Canadian CL-13B Sabres Mk6 were operated by the SAAF until they were eventually retired during April 1980.