New images added Hobby Master HA6734 Tornado IDS “Tiger Meet 2003” 43+96, AG-51, German Air Force, 2003
In 2003, Aufklarungsgeschwader 51 “Immelmann” (AG 51) operated the Panavia Tornado IDS from Schleswig-Jagel Air Base as the Luftwaffe’s premier tactical reconnaissance wing. Although equipped with standard IDS airframes, many aircraft were configured for the reconnaissance mission by carrying the Recce Pod, which housed high-resolution optical and infrared sensors capable of collecting imagery at both low and medium altitudes. The wing also operated the Tornado ECR variant for electronic reconnaissance and suppression of enemy air defences, making AG 51 one of the German Air Force’s most versatile combat units. During this period, AG 51 aircraft wore the overall Norm 95 gray camouflage scheme, and several jets carried distinctive tiger markings following participation in NATO Tiger Meet exercises.
Panavia Tornado IDS
Designed in collaboration with Britain, West Germany and Italy, the Tornado was first flown on August 14th, 1974 and is thought by many to be the most important military aircraft in Western European history. Nicknamed “The Flying Fin” because of its large tail fin, the Tornado has a variable wing sweep design and is capable of taking off and landing on short airstrips. It is equipped with terrain-following radar, which allows for hands-off, low-level flight in any weather. There are three primary versions: an electronic combat/reconnaissance version, an interceptor and a highly versatile strike fighter-bomber capable of carrying almost all of NATO’s air-launched weapons.
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