SAAF takes delivery of new aircraft

The South African Air Force has taken delivery of its first two Hawk MK 120 fighter aircraft. Brigadier General Philip Willcock says a complete fleet of 24 aircraft is expected by mid-2007. South Africa ordered the aircraft from the British company, BAE Systems in 1999 as well as 28 Gripen fighters to equip the air force with a modern, flexible and cost-effective jet fleet. BuaNews reports that the Hawk aircraft are unique in their ability to have their cockpits configured to represent any modern front-line fighter. They are an updated version of the Hawk 100 series.