The Th
underbirds air demonstration squadron kicked off its 2009 flying season with shows this past weekend at Luke AFB, Ariz. The March21 and March 22 performances are part of the more than 73 shows that the Thunderbirds have scheduled on their itinerary in the US, Puerto Rico, and Far East through mid November. Prior to the wowing the crowds at Luke, the squadron performed their final tune-up by flying their acceptance show at Nellis AFB, Nev. March 12. This year marks the first time that the Thunderbirds are flying with F-16 Block 52 airplanes. (Includes Nellis photo caption by SSgt. Kristi Machado)
The U.S. military is maintaining a beefed-up presence in the Middle East, including fighters and air defense assets, following the U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities June 22 and subsequent retaliation by the Iranians against Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.
