Fact Sheet: The Black Knights

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) Black Knights marked their debut as Singapore's first military aerobatics team in 1973. Since then, the Black Knights has thrilled spectators with their spectacular performances.

In tandem with the technological advancement and development of the RSAF, the Black Knights progressed from flying a four-aircraft formation of the Hawker Hunters in the 1970s to a five-aircraft F-5E Tigers team in the 1980s. In the 1990s, the Black Knights performed with a six-aircraft formation, flying the pride of the local defence industry - the re-engined A-4SU Super Skyhawks. In 2000, the Black Knights performed with both the A-4SUs and F-16 Fighting Falcons and made history by being the world's first formation aerobatics team to fly two different aircraft types. In 2008, the Black Knights flew six F-16C Fighting Falcons at the inaugural Singapore Airshow.

Unlike most aerobatics teams around the world, the RSAF Black Knights team is not a full-time formation aerobatics team. Our Black Knights pilots are primarily operational pilots tasked to upkeep the readiness of the RSAF and the defence of the nation. Nevertheless, the Black Knights have time and again put up aerial performances comparable to those of professional full-time aerobatics teams. The Black Knights' precision, tight formations, skilful and spectacular manoeuvres are a source of great pride for Singapore.

New Paint Scheme

When the Black Knights previously performed in 2008, the aircraft was painted in the red and white colours of our national flag. For Singapore Airshow 2014, the aircraft will continue to retain our traditional colours of red and white. In addition, the new paint scheme will incorporate the national symbols of the crescent moon and five stars.