NATO Days 2022

NATO Days is an annual event that is held to promote public awareness of NATO's role in international security and to showcase the capabilities of NATO and its member countries. The event usually takes place at the end of the summer or early autumn and is held in the Czech Republic at Ostrava airport. During the event, visitors have the opportunity to see various military aircraft and vehicles, as well as to meet soldiers and military personnel from NATO and its member countries. There are also demonstrations of military capabilities and performances by military bands. In addition to the military displays, the event also features various educational and cultural activities. Visitors can attend lectures on international security, participate in workshops on military topics, and enjoy food and drink from different NATO member countries. Overall, NATO Days is a unique opportunity for the public to learn about NATO and its mission, as well as to experience firsthand some of the military capabilities of NATO and its member countries. Our team had the honor to visit this event in 2022, below we will share the most exciting moments of the airshow.

Airbus A400M German Air Force - Luftwaffe \ Image: AviapixBaltics

The Patrouille Suisse

Patrouille Suisse is the aerobatic display team of the Swiss Air Force. It was formed in 1964 and is based at the military airbase in Emmen, Switzerland. The team consists of six F-5E Tiger II fighter aircraft, which are painted in the colors of the Swiss national flag (red and white) and perform aerobatic maneuvers in close formation. The pilots are selected from the Swiss Air Force's fighter squadrons and are among the best pilots in the Swiss military. Patrouille Suisse performs at air shows and other public events in Switzerland and around the world, showcasing the precision flying skills of the Swiss Air Force. The team's performances typically include loops, rolls, and other aerobatic maneuvers, often accompanied by smoke trails that enhance the visual effect. The Patrouille Suisse has become a symbol of Swiss precision and excellence, and its performances are highly regarded by aviation enthusiasts around the world. The F-5E Tiger II is a lightweight, supersonic fighter aircraft that was designed and built by Northrop Corporation in the United States. The aircraft was first introduced in 1972 and is still in use today by several air forces around the world. The F-5E is the upgraded version of the earlier F-5A Freedom Fighter. It features a more powerful engine, improved avionics, and an upgraded armament system. The aircraft is relatively small and has a slender fuselage, which contributes to its speed and maneuverability. The F-5E is primarily designed for air-to-air combat, although it can also be used for ground attack missions. Its armament includes two 20mm cannons and a variety of air-to-air missiles, bombs, and rockets. The aircraft has a top speed of Mach 1.6 (approximately 1,200 mph) and a range of approximately 1,000 miles. In addition to its role as a fighter aircraft, the F-5E has also been used for training purposes. Many air forces around the world have used this aircraft to train their pilots in advanced air combat techniques. Overall, the F-5E Tiger II is a highly capable and versatile fighter aircraft that has served in the military forces of many countries over the past several decades.

Patrouille Suisse - the aerobatic display team of the Swiss Air Force/ Image: AviapixBaltics

SAAB Gripen E-series

The Saab Gripen is a fourth-generation fighter aircraft that was designed and built by Saab, a Swedish aerospace company. The aircraft was first introduced in 1996 and is currently in service with several air forces around the world, including the Swedish, Brazilian, South African, and Thai air forces. The Gripen is a lightweight, multi-role fighter aircraft that is designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. It features a delta wing design, a single engine, and a state-of-the-art avionics suite. The aircraft has a top speed of Mach 2 and a range of over 2,500 miles. One of the key features of the Gripen is its advanced avionics system, which includes a digital fly-by-wire system, a helmet-mounted display, and a wide range of sensors and mission systems. The aircraft is also designed to be highly adaptable and can be easily configured for a variety of mission types. The Gripen is armed with a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, including missiles, bombs, and rockets. It also features a 27mm cannon for close air support missions. Overall, the Saab Gripen is a highly capable and versatile fighter aircraft that has been designed to meet the needs of modern air forces. Its advanced avionics system and flexible design make it a popular choice for air forces around the world. The Saab Gripen E-series is the latest version of the Gripen fighter aircraft, which was developed by Saab, a Swedish aerospace company. The Gripen E-series features several upgrades and improvements over the previous versions of the aircraft, including enhanced avionics, improved stealth capabilities, and increased range and payload capacity.

Embraer KC-390

The Embraer E-390 is a military aircraft currently under development by Embraer, a Brazilian aerospace company. It is also known as the Embraer KC-390, as it is primarily designed to be a military transport aircraft. The E-390 is a twin-engine, medium-sized military transport aircraft that is designed to operate in a wide range of environments and missions, including airlift, cargo and troop transport, aerial refueling, search and rescue, and humanitarian missions. It has a range of up to 2,730 nautical miles and can carry up to 80 fully equipped soldiers, or 26,455 lbs of cargo. The aircraft features advanced avionics, a fly-by-wire flight control system, and a cargo ramp that can accommodate a wide range of equipment and vehicles. It is also equipped with defensive systems and can operate in a variety of threat environments. One of the unique features of the E-390 is its ability to perform aerial refueling. It can be equipped with a refueling pod under each wing, allowing it to refuel other aircraft in flight. The E-390 is in service with the Brazilian Air Force, and several other countries have shown interest in the aircraft. It is expected to be a highly capable and versatile military transport aircraft, able to perform a wide range of missions and operate in challenging environments.

Embraer KC-390, Brazilian Air Force/ Image: AviapixBaltics

Czech Air Force Mil Mi-24

The Czech Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic. It was established in 1993, following the dissolution of Czechoslovakia and the formation of the Czech Republic. The Czech Air Force operates a fleet of modern and advanced aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. Its primary mission is to protect the airspace of the Czech Republic, as well as to support international operations and participate in joint military exercises with other NATO allies. The Czech Air Force operates a number of different aircraft, including the Gripen fighter jet, the CASA C-295 transport plane, the Mil Mi-24 and Mi-171 helicopter gunships, and the Bell UH-1 Iroquois utility helicopter. It also operates a number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance and reconnaissance missions. In addition to its military operations, the Czech Air Force is also involved in various civilian activities, including search and rescue missions, disaster relief, and firefighting operations. It has highly trained and professional personnel, consisting of both career military personnel and civilian contractors. Overall, the Czech Air Force is a modern and capable air force that plays an important role in the defense of the Czech Republic and the broader NATO alliance. Its advanced aircraft and highly skilled personnel make it a key player in regional security and stability. The Mil Mi-24 is a Soviet-era attack helicopter that was first introduced in 1972. It is commonly known as the "Hind" and is still in use by a number of countries, including Russia and several former Soviet republics. The Mi-24 was designed to be a heavily armed and armored helicopter that could carry troops and equipment, as well as provide close air support to ground troops. It features a distinctive tandem cockpit design, with the pilot in the front and the gunner in the rear. The Mi-24 is equipped with a wide range of weapons systems, including a nose-mounted 12.7mm machine gun, rocket pods, and anti-tank guided missiles. It has a top speed of around 220 miles per hour and a range of up to 280 miles. Over the years, the Mi-24 has been used in a variety of conflicts, including the Soviet-Afghan War, the Iran-Iraq War, and the conflicts in Bosnia and Kosovo. It has also been exported to a number of countries, including India, Syria, and Venezuela. Despite its age, the Mi-24 remains a highly capable and effective attack helicopter, and its rugged design and heavy armament make it well-suited for combat operations in a variety of environments.

Czech Air Force Mil Mi-24 helicopter/ Image: AviapixBaltics

Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy

The Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy is a military transport aircraft designed and manufactured by the American company Lockheed Martin. It is one of the largest military aircraft in the world and is primarily used by the United States Air Force (USAF) to transport troops, cargo, and equipment. The C-5M Super Galaxy is an upgraded version of the earlier C-5 Galaxy aircraft, featuring a number of improvements to its engines, avionics, and structural components. The upgrades were designed to improve the aircraft's range, reliability, and operating efficiency, and to extend its service life well into the 21st century. The C-5M Super Galaxy has a maximum payload of over 270,000 pounds and can carry up to 36 standard pallets or a variety of oversized cargo, including vehicles, helicopters, and other aircraft. It is also capable of carrying up to 345 passengers or 75 litter patients. The aircraft is powered by four General Electric CF6 turbofan engines, which provide a maximum thrust of 50,000 pounds each. The C-5M has a range of up to 8,000 miles and can fly at speeds of up to 518 miles per hour. Overall, the Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy is a critical component of the United States military's transportation fleet, providing a versatile and reliable means of transporting troops, cargo, and equipment around the world.

Lockheed P-3 Orion

The Lockheed P-3 Orion is a four-engine turboprop maritime patrol aircraft designed and produced by the American company Lockheed Martin. It is primarily used by the United States Navy and other navies around the world for maritime patrol, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine warfare missions. The P-3 Orion was first introduced in the early 1960s and has since undergone several upgrades to its avionics, engines, and mission systems. It is known for its long-range, endurance, and versatility, and has been used for a variety of missions including search and rescue, surveillance, and humanitarian aid operations. The P-3 Orion is equipped with a variety of sensors and mission systems, including radar, sonar, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, which enable it to detect and track surface and sub-surface targets such as ships and submarines. It is also equipped with torpedoes, missiles, and other weapons systems for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. The aircraft has a crew of up to 11 personnel, including pilots, navigators, and mission specialists, and can operate for up to 12 hours at a time without refueling. It has a maximum speed of 411 miles per hour and a range of over 4,000 miles. Overall, the P-3 Orion has proven to be a reliable and versatile platform for maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions and continues to serve as a critical asset for naval forces around the world.

Finnish Air Force McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet

The Finnish Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Finnish Defence Forces. It was founded in 1918, shortly after Finland gained its independence from Russia, and has since played an important role in the country's defense. The Finnish Air Force is primarily responsible for defending the airspace over Finland and conducting air defense operations. It operates a variety of fighter, transport, and reconnaissance aircraft, as well as helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). One of the most important aircraft in the Finnish Air Force's fleet is The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, supersonic, all-weather, multirole fighter aircraft designed and manufactured by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing). It first entered service with the United States Navy in the early 1980s and has since been adopted by several other countries around the world. The F/A-18 Hornet is a versatile aircraft that can perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, close air support, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. It is armed with a variety of weapons, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, guided bombs, and cannons. The Hornet has a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 (1,190 miles per hour) and can operate at altitudes up to 50,000 feet. It is equipped with advanced avionics and sensors, including a digital fly-by-wire flight control system, a radar system, and an infrared search and track system. The Hornet has been involved in numerous military operations, including the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and the War in Afghanistan. It has also been used for airshows and air races, where its speed and maneuverability have made it a popular attraction. In addition to the original F/A-18 Hornet, McDonnell Douglas developed an upgraded version called the F/A-18 Super Hornet, which features improved avionics, weapons systems, and performance. The Super Hornet has been adopted by several countries, including the United States Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force, and the Kuwait Air Force. Overall, the F/A-18 Hornet is a highly capable and versatile fighter aircraft that has proven its effectiveness in a variety of missions and continues to serve as an important asset for militaries around the world. The Finnish Air Force also operates transport aircraft such as the C-295 and the Fokker F27, which are used for logistics, troop transport, and medical evacuation missions. Additionally, it operates reconnaissance aircraft such as the Learjet 35A, which is equipped with advanced sensor and imaging systems for intelligence gathering. The Finnish Air Force has a long history of international cooperation and has participated in a number of peacekeeping and crisis management operations around the world. It is also a member of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO) and participates in joint military exercises with other Nordic countries. Overall, the Finnish Air Force is a modern and capable air force that plays an important role in defending Finland's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker

The Boeing KC-135 is a military aerial refueling aircraft that was originally developed by Boeing in the 1950s. It is also commonly known as the Stratotanker due to its ability to refuel other aircraft in mid-air, allowing them to extend their range and mission capabilities. The KC-135 was designed to replace the older piston-engine powered KC-97 Stratofreighter and was first flown in August 1956. It has a wingspan of 130 feet, a length of 136 feet, and a height of 41 feet. The aircraft is powered by four Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojet engines, which provide a maximum speed of around 600 mph and a range of approximately 1,500 miles with a full fuel load. The KC-135 has a large fuel capacity, with a maximum transferable fuel load of up to 200,000 pounds. It is equipped with a boom and hose-and-drogue system for refueling other aircraft, allowing it to refuel up to three aircraft simultaneously. In addition to its primary role as an aerial refueling tanker, the KC-135 has also been used for a variety of other missions, including cargo and personnel transport, reconnaissance, and even as a flying command center. It has been used extensively by the United States Air Force (USAF) and other air forces around the world and is considered to be a versatile and reliable aircraft. The KC-135 has undergone several upgrades and modernizations over the years, including improvements to its engines, avionics, and other systems. Today, USAF operates over 400 KC-135s in various configurations, and the aircraft is expected to remain in service for several more decades.

Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker/ Image: AviapixBaltics

The Belgian Air Force F-16 Solo Display Team

The Belgian Air Force F-16 Solo Display Team is a group of highly skilled pilots and ground crew who perform aerial displays and demonstrations at air shows and events around the world. The team is comprised of a single pilot who flies an F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft, performing a range of aerobatic maneuvers and stunts to showcase the capabilities of the Belgian Air Force. The F-16 Solo Display Team was established in 1995 and has since become one of the most popular and highly-regarded aerial display teams in Europe. The team typically performs a 10-15 minute routine, which includes high-speed passes, tight turns, and vertical climbs and dives, all performed with precision and skill. The team's F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft are specially modified for the display role, with unique paint schemes and smoke generators that enhance the visual impact of the display. The pilots are also specially trained to perform the complex maneuvers and stunts required for the display and undergo rigorous training and preparation before each performance. The F-16 Solo Display Team is not just a source of entertainment but also serves as a showcase for the capabilities of the Belgian Air Force and the advanced technology of the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The team's performances are designed to inspire and engage audiences, and to promote the importance of air power and military aviation. Over the years, the F-16 Solo Display Team has performed at numerous air shows and events across Europe and beyond, including the Royal International Air Tattoo in the UK, the NATO Days in the Czech Republic, and the Dubai Airshow in the UAE. The team is a source of pride for the Belgian Air Force and has become an important ambassador for the country and its aviation industry.

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom is a two-seat, twin-engine supersonic fighter bomber that was developed by the United States during the 1950s. The aircraft first entered service with the US Navy in 1960 and quickly became one of the most widely used military aircraft in the world. The F-4 Phantom was designed as a multi-role fighter-bomber, capable of carrying a wide range of weapons and equipment and performing a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. The aircraft was also notable for its speed and maneuverability, thanks to its powerful engines and advanced aerodynamic design. The F-4 Phantom was powered by two General Electric J79 turbojet engines, which provided a top speed of over Mach 2 and a range of more than 1,000 miles. The aircraft was armed with a variety of weapons, including missiles, bombs, and cannons, and was equipped with advanced avionics and radar systems to aid in targeting and navigation. The F-4 Phantom was used extensively by the United States during the Vietnam War, where it was used for air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. The aircraft was also used by a number of other countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Israel, and saw action in a number of conflicts, including the Arab-Israeli Wars, the Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War. Over the years, the F-4 Phantom underwent a number of upgrades and modifications, including the addition of new weapons and avionics systems, and the development of specialized variants for specific roles, such as reconnaissance and electronic warfare. The aircraft remained in service with a number of air forces well into the 21st century and was only fully retired from US military service in 2016. Today, the F-4 Phantom is regarded as one of the most iconic military aircraft of the Cold War era and is remembered for its speed, power, and versatility in combat.

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom is widely regarded as one of the most successful and versatile fighter bombers ever produced and played a significant role in many of the major conflicts of the Cold War era. Here are a few more details about the aircraft:

The F-4 Phantom was originally designed as a carrier-based fighter for the US Navy but was later adapted for use by the US Air Force and other air forces around the world. The aircraft's versatility made it an attractive option for a wide range of missions, from air superiority to ground attack and reconnaissance.
The F-4 Phantom was heavily involved in the Vietnam War, where it was used primarily for ground attack missions. The aircraft was equipped with a variety of bombs and missiles, including the AGM-65 Maverick, which could be used to target enemy tanks and other ground targets.
The F-4 Phantom was also used extensively by the Israeli Air Force, which used the aircraft in a number of conflicts, including the Six-Day War, the Yom Kippur War, and the Lebanon War. Israeli F-4s were equipped with a variety of advanced weapons and electronic countermeasures systems and were often used in surprise attacks against enemy air defenses.
In addition to its military service, the F-4 Phantom was also used by NASA for a variety of research and testing missions. The aircraft was used to test high-speed flight and new engine technologies and was also used as a chase plane to monitor the flights of other experimental aircraft.
The F-4 Phantom was eventually replaced in US military service by the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon, which were designed to be more maneuverable and agile than the F-4. However, the aircraft remained in service with a number of air forces around the world and was used in a variety of roles, including as a target drone and as a reconnaissance aircraft.

Today, the F-4 Phantom remains a popular subject for aviation enthusiasts and modelers and is widely regarded as one of the most iconic military aircraft of the 20th century.

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom/ Image: AviapixBaltics

Panavia Tornado

The Panavia Tornado is a multirole combat aircraft developed by a consortium of European companies, including British Aerospace, MBB of Germany, and Aeritalia of Italy. The aircraft was designed to be a versatile and flexible platform capable of performing a wide range of missions, including ground attack, air-to-air combat, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. The Tornado made its first flight in 1974 and entered service with the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1979. It was designed to replace a variety of aging aircraft in the RAF's inventory, including the Hawker Hunter, Blackburn Buccaneer, and McDonnell Douglas Phantom. The Tornado quickly established itself as a highly capable and adaptable aircraft and has been used extensively in a variety of conflicts and operations. One of the key features of the Tornado is its ability to operate at low altitudes and high speed, thanks to its powerful engines and advanced aerodynamic design. The aircraft is capable of carrying a wide range of weapons, including missiles, bombs, and cannons, and is equipped with advanced avionics and radar systems to aid in targeting and navigation. The Tornado has been used in a variety of conflicts and operations, including the Gulf War, the Balkans, and Afghanistan. In the Gulf War, the Tornado was used primarily for ground attack missions and played a significant role in destroying Iraqi air defenses and ground forces. In the Balkans, the Tornado was used for a variety of missions, including ground attack, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. Over the years, the Tornado has undergone a number of upgrades and modifications, including the addition of new weapons and avionics systems, and the development of specialized variants for specific roles, such as electronic warfare and reconnaissance. The aircraft remains in service with a number of air forces around the world, although many countries have begun to retire the aircraft in favor of newer and more capable platforms. Overall, the Panavia Tornado is widely regarded as a highly capable and versatile aircraft that has played an important role in many of the major conflicts of the past few decades. Despite its age, the Tornado remains a respected and formidable platform and will continue to be used by a number of air forces for years to come. The Panavia Tornado was one of the mainstay fighter bombers of the German Luftwaffe during the Cold War era. The aircraft was acquired by the Luftwaffe as part of a consortium with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Italian Air Force and was designed to replace several aging aircraft in the Luftwaffe's inventory, including the F-104 Starfighter and the F-4 Phantom. The first Tornado aircraft was delivered to the Luftwaffe in 1981, and the aircraft quickly established itself as a highly capable and adaptable platform. The Tornado was used extensively by the Luftwaffe in a variety of roles, including ground attack, air-to-air combat, and reconnaissance. During the Cold War, the Tornado was seen as a key component of the Luftwaffe's defense strategy, and the aircraft was deployed to several bases throughout West Germany. In the event of a conflict with the Soviet Union, the Tornado would have been used to attack enemy ground forces, disrupt enemy air defenses, and provide close air support to friendly ground forces. The Tornado was also used by the Luftwaffe in a number of international operations, including the Gulf War, where German Tornados were used primarily for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. The Tornado was also used by the Luftwaffe in several Balkan conflicts in the 1990s, where it was used for ground attack missions. Over the years, the Tornado has undergone several upgrades and modifications, including the addition of new avionics systems and the development of specialized variants for specific roles, such as electronic warfare and reconnaissance. The aircraft has also been equipped with a variety of advanced weapons, including laser-guided bombs and air-to-ground missiles.

Panavia Tornado, Luftwaffe/ Image: AviapixBaltics

Boeing B-52 Stratofortress

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is a long-range strategic bomber that has been in service with the United States Air Force (USAF) since 1955. The aircraft has a storied history and has been used in a variety of conflicts and missions over the past several decades. The B-52 was developed in the early 1950s as a replacement for the earlier B-36 Peacemaker bomber. The aircraft was designed to carry nuclear weapons and to serve as a key component of the United States' nuclear deterrence strategy during the Cold War. The B-52 made its first flight in 1952 and entered service with the USAF in 1955. The B-52 is a large, eight-engine aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of over 500,000 pounds. The aircraft is capable of flying at high altitudes and speeds and has a range of over 8,000 miles without refueling. The B-52 is also capable of carrying a variety of conventional and nuclear weapons, including gravity bombs, cruise missiles, and air-launched ballistic missiles. The B-52 has been used in a variety of conflicts and operations over the years. The aircraft was used extensively during the Vietnam War, where it was used primarily for strategic bombing missions. The B-52 was also used in the Gulf War, where it was used for both strategic and tactical bombing missions. The aircraft has also been used in more recent conflicts, including the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Over the years, the B-52 has undergone a number of upgrades and modifications to keep it relevant and effective in modern warfare. These upgrades have included the addition of new avionics systems, engines, and weapons. Despite its age, the B-52 remains a key component of the USAF's strategic bomber force and is expected to remain in service for several more decades. Overall, the B-52 Stratofortress is an iconic and highly capable aircraft with a long and storied history. The aircraft has played a key role in many of the major conflicts of the past several decades and remains a key component of the USAF's strategic bomber force today.

Boeing B-52 Stratofortress/ Image: AviapixBaltics

Only a few highlights from NATO Days 2022 have already been discussed above. In order to discuss everything, we would need 5 more such articles, so to save Your time, we are sharing the gallery of the event below. Stay tuned!

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Her Majesty - Delta

The end of an era!

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