Visit to Monte Real

In 1979 316 squadron of the Royal Netherlands Air Force had a squadron exchange with 103 squadron of the Portugese Air Force. In September two T-38A Talons (10868 and 10915) were temporarly based at Gilze Rijen, while 6 NF-5A went to Monte Real in November. By that time still some F-86F Sabres were based at Monte Real, and they flew operational missions. The training squadron was equipped with the ageing T-bird, while 6 second hand T-38A Talons were recently delivered from the USAF. So, this Portugese base was well worth a visit! I think the photos will show splendid times which will never come back.