Jagdgeschwader 71 "R" / Wittmund AB

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Phabulous Phantoms phinal days

Since the F-4F Phantom II decommissioning at the JG74 (Fighter Wing 74 Bavarian Neuburg based) the Jagdgeschwader (Fighter Wing) 71 from Wittmund Air Base, is the sole remaining wing operating the F-4F in the Luftwaffe (German Air Force). However after 37 years of service the farewell of the longest-serving fighter jet within the Luftwaffe is near. It is planned to retire the last 6 Phantom in 2013 already. Currently approximately 30 jets remain in service, however only 25 will stay in service at the end of the year (2012 just 14, 2013 the last 6). JG71 Phantoms accumulated more than 6,500 flight hours last year, but use of the type will be reduced to 3,000h in 2011, 1,800h in 2012 and 700h in 2013. As a result of the reduction, all training missions are limited to just 40 minutes long sorties. The Phantoms are flying without any additional tanks. With reduced flying hours an equal number of landings can be kept, an important factor for the flight instruction task of the squadron. In 2010 four students, including the first female flighter pilot of the Luftwaffe, successfully concluded the convertion from the rookie status to an operational F-4 driver, another four will follow in 2011. Approximately 50 crews are available for the JG71 activites, each flying 120h every year. The squadron main roles are air defence and air policing. JG 71 is responsible for air surveillance and security tasks in the Federal Republic of Germany's nothern airspace. For this purpose, the JG71 supplies a QRA (quick reaction alert) 24hrs per day, 365 days per year with flying and ground crews ready for action. The QRA consists of two armed aircraft which, in the event of an alert, can be in the air within just a few minutes. Some impressions of the JG71 daily routine:

Flight operations at the Richthofen squadron

Maintenance JG71

Intake markings of the last Deci deployment 2010 - Phinal Deci 2010
In addition to the Luftwaffe, BAE Systems also has a presence at Wittmundhafen. Unofficially known as 713 Dartziel Staffel, the BAE flying unit provides aerial target services for the Luftwaffe and other NATO air forces, using the classic Douglas A-4 Skyhawk. BAE Systems A-4N Skyhawk - the Scooters:

Nightflying

Night flying is an essential part in the training of the crews. The QRA - task requires an 24h operational readiness including night flying activities.

Uncertain future

The future of the squadron and the airbase is uncertain due to the new series of budget cuts within the Luftwaffe. Luftwaffe squadrons will be disbanded and bases will be closed is the only sure fact currently.
The characteristic smoke trial and unique silhouetteof the Phantom will be history soon, unfortunately!