Thunder Run: RSAF soars over Singapore City

A free display of Singapore's air power takes place over Singapore's city centre around noon today.

It will be a case of something old, something new as the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) parades its cutting edge in the lead up to Singapore's 45th National Day celebrations.

The last time the RSAF flew in such strength over the city was at the National Day Parade 2005.

Five years on, Singapore's air force has much to show as its G550 airborne early warning aircraft and F-15SG Strike Eagle fighter jets participate in the NDP flypast for the first time.

The flying arsenal reflects only part of the RSAF's transformation into a powerful and hard-hitting air force.

What people don't see are the landmark changes to the RSAF's command structure and organisation which has led to a battle-ready air force with a higher degree of defence readiness. These changes are borne out in the various commands such as the Air Power Generation Command and Air Combat Command - without whose support, professional expertise and dedication nothing flies.

The noontime flypast will be a practice session for the real thing on 9 August 2010 - Singapore's independence day.

The second RSAF Internal Rehearsal builds on lessons learnt from the first practice on 2 June 2010. The third and last weekday practice is due to be held next Wednesday 16 June 2010.

For plane spotters, these weekday rehearsals are valuable photo opportunities because they are held in daylight, which should lead to better images.

Flypast practices held when the entire parade contingent forms up will be held close to the actual parade timing. This means the aircraft and helicopters will fly in the fading light of dusk.

Tune in later today for a sighting report.