Starfighter Squadron Exchanges - Rotations 1976-1980

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek AB and the French Navy 11F squadron, based at Landivisiau. It was a 2-way rotation. In total six Starfighters flew to France and six Etendards flew to Northern Germany.

The Belgium Air Force 349 Smaldeel from 1 Wing based at Beauvechain AB exchanged with nr 43 Squadron based at Leuchars AB. It is unknown if the RAF aircraft flew to Belgium but at least the Belgium F-104s went to England.. Aircraft seen at Leuchars included FX58 and likely sliver aircraft FX25.

Photo by Pierre Schaffrath showing one of the sliver aircraft (likely FX25)
being prepared for a mission from Leuchars.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 323 squadron based at Leeuwarden AB, and the Italian Air Force 10 gruppo based at Grazzanise AB flying the F-104S. It was a 2-way rotation . Dutch Starfighters seen at Grazzanise were F-104G D-8053, D-8110, D-8082, D-8293, D-8304, D8308 (323sq) and TF-104G D-5702 (TCA markings). At Leeuwarden four Italian Starfighters could be found being MM6823/9-43, MM6825/9-42, MM6826/9-44 and MM6878/9-40. All Dutch Starfighters received nice white 10 Gruppo badges on their tails.


	D-8053 on the Grazzanise visitor platform mid May 1976. (Thanks to Klaas Folkersma)	D-8304 on the Grazzanise visitor platform mid May 1976. Note the D-8293 next to this F-104. (Thanks to Klaas Folkersma)	D-8308 on the Grazzanise visitor platform mid May 1976. (Thanks to Klaas Folkersma)


	MM6825 code 9-42 landing at Leeuwarden AB in May 1976. (Photo : Gerrit Hiemstra)	MM6826 code 9-44 while arriving at Leeuwarden AB on May 11th, 1976. (Photo : Gerrit Hiemstra)	MM6878 code 9-40 is seen here on the NATO platform at Leeuwarden Air Base just after arrival on May 11th, 1976. (Photo Gerrit Bouma)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek AB and the Norwegian Air Force 334 Skv, based at Bodo AB flying the CF-104. It was a 2-way rotation. In total six Starfighters flew to Norway and five CF-104s flew to Germany including CF-104D 104633. One of the German Starfighters at Bodo was 21+29 which received a yellow paintbrushed Bodo zapp on its tail.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG1, based at Schleswig Jagel and the Canadian 441 squadron, based at Baden-Sollingen AB flying the CF-104. It was a shifted rotation. In total six Starfighters flew to Baden Sollingen and flew between 22 June and 1 July 1976, the Canadians came to Schlesswig with six CF-104s lateron. They stayed at Schlesswig between 3 and 12 August 1976.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Italian Air Force 18 Gruppo, based at Villafranca AB and the US Air Force 1TRS, based at Alconbury, UK flying the RF-4C. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2-way rotation. At least the following F-104G aircraft were seen at Alconbury: MM6514/3-08, MM6545/3-06, MM6565/3-11 and MM6586/3-03.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Italian Air Force 156 Gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle and the US Air Force 526TFS, based at Ramstein flying the F-4E Phantom. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2-way rotation. At least the F-104S aircraft were seen at Ramstein.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Norwegian 331 Skv, based at Bodo AB and the Royal Air Force 23 squadron, based at Wattisham flying the F-4 Phantom. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation but at least the Norwegians flew to the UK.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Italian Air Force 102 Gruppo, based at Rimini and the Dutch Air Force 311 squadron, based at Volkel. It was a 2-way rotation where F-104S aircraft flew to Holland and F-104G aircraft to Italy. Aircraft seen at Volkel were MM6788/5-13, MM6839/5-15, MM6844/5-08 and MM6886/5-09.
It is a bit unclear what kind of rotation this was since it was only 1 long weekend!!!!.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 306 squadron, based at Volkel AB, flying the RF-104G and the Danish Air Force 729 Esk, based at Karup AB, flying the Saab RF35 Draken. It was a 2 way rotation where four Drakens flew to Holland. On September 20th an extra Draken came along. Starfighter which flew to Karup AB were RF-104G D-8013, D-8112, D-8131, D-8273 and TF-104G D-5803. The pre-exchange toke place on August 30th, when a two-seater Draken Sk35XD came to Volkel.

Draken-Starfighter formation flight over Volkel
in September 1976. (Photo: Frans van den Berk)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG34, based at Memmingen flying the F-104G and the Dutch Air Force 315 squadron, based at Twenthe AB flying the NF-5 fighter. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2-way rotation but the 104s were seen for sure at Twenthe AB being F-104G 22+39, 22+44, 22+47, 22+63, 22+90, 24+57 and TF-104G 27+22.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG33, based at Buchel AB flying the F-104G and the Dutch Air Force 312 squadron, based at Volkel AB flying the F-104G as well. It was a 2-way rotation. Seen at Volkel AB were aircraft 20+62, 20+64, 22+03 and 25+52 and TF-104G 28+18. All belonged to the 2nd Staffel (blue badges). Aircraft 25+52 had a red badge, so this was used on loan probably. Dutch Starfighters which flew to Buchel AB were F-104G D-6695, D-8051, D-8245, D-8312 together with TF-104G D-5805


F-104G 25+50 with red JBG33 badges on its tail is seen here landing at Volkel during the rotation in October 1976..	TF-104G 28+18 landing at Volkel in October 1976. One year later it was lost in a crash. (Photo: Frans van den Berk)

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 29 squadron, based at Coningsby, flying the F-4 Phantom and the Dutch Air Force 322 squadron, based at Leeuwarden AB flying the air defense version of the F-104G. It was a 2-way rotation where F-4 aircraft flew to Holland and F-104G aircraft to the UK. In Holland lots of DACT (Dissimilar Air Combat Training) missions were flown. The Starfighter pilots had a hard time against the more agile F-4s. The tradition to burn a piano at the 29squadron premises ended almost in a disaster.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Danish Air Force 726 Eskader, based at Aalborg AB, flying the CF-104 and the Italian Air Force 12 gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Belgium Air Force 1 Wing, based at Beauvechain AB, flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 21 gruppo, based at Cameri AB flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation.
(NB. It is still unknown if this was a squadron rotation or an exercise)

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Belgium Air Force 42 Smaldeel, based at Florennes AB, flying the Mirage 5 and the Italian Air Force 28 gruppo, based at Villafranca AB flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force AKG52, based at Leck AB, flying the RF-4E Phantom and the Italian Air Force 132 gruppo, based at Villafranca AB flying the F-104G and for this rotation the RF-104G as well. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 29 squadron, based at Coningsby, flying the F-4 Phantom and the Italian Air Force 9 gruppo, based at Grosseto AB flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation. At least the Italians flew to Coningsby. Aicraft at Coningsby were F-104S MM6702/4-12, MM6721/4-11, MM6770/4-4 and MM6869/4-3. Aircraft F-104S MM6711/4-7 and TF-104G MM54251/20-15 arrived at Coningsby a month earlier on March 8th for a pre-visit and stayed the night.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 12 squadron, based at Honington, flying the Buccaneer and the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek flying the F-104G. It was a 2 way rotation. In total six Starfighters flew to the UK and also six Buccaneers were welcomed in Germany.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Belgium Air Force 31 Smaldeel of 10 Wing, based at Kleine Brogel AB, flying the F-104G and the German Navy MFG1, based at Schleswig-Jagel flying the F-104G as well. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation. Six Belgium Starfighters flew to Northern Germany including FX60 and FX84.
(some reports mentioned also FX94 but this was not yet confirmed)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 312 squadron, based at Volkel AB, flying the F-104G and the Danish Air Force 725 Esk, based at Karup AB, flying the Saab A 35 XD Draken. It was a 2 way rotation. In total nine different Draken aircraft participated but not all at the same time. On June 20th and 21st a number of aircraft were replaced. Five Dutch F-104G Starfighters flew to Denmark being D-6683, D-6697, D-8063, D-8268 and D-8312.

Again Draken fighters over Volkel Air Base.
Now in June 1977. (Photo: Frans van den Berk)

This period a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG31 (2nd Staffel), based at Norvenich AB, flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 102 gruppo, based at Rimini AB flying the F-104S. It was a shifted 2 way rotation. This first period the Italians came to Norvenich. Some believe it ended on August 8th, but often 4th is mentioned. Aircraft “5-14” (very likely MM6842), MM6750/5-01, MM6781/5-13 and MM6846/5-16 were noticed. At least aircraft “5-14” and “5-20” got JBG31 badges on its inlets as souvenir. Later in August the Germans flew to Rimini. (See beneath)

This period a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG31 (2nd Staffel), based at Norvenich AB, flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 102 gruppo, based at Rimini AB flying the F-104S. It was a shifted 2 way rotation. After the Italians visited Norvenich, in August the Starfighters from Norvenich flew to Rimini. German Starfighters seen at Rimini included 26+05 and 20+15. During the stay in Italy the German Starfighters received 102gruppo badges on their intakes and Italian “5-16” was still flying with JBG31 badges. (See above).


JBG31 guys at Rimini. Here they are standing and sitting on F-104S MM6846 code 5-16 which had been in Norvenich some weeks earlier and has JBG31 badge on its inlet... (JBG31)	Nice flightline at Rimini. Aircraft seen are from right to left German 20+15 and 26+05, then Italian brand new MM6916 code 5-20 and the MM6846 code 5-16 (note the JBG31 badge on inlet (JBG31)	Italian MM6842 code 5-14 flying formation with German 20+15 over the sea near Rimini Air Base. Note the JBG31 badge on the inlets... (JBG31)

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 306 squadron, based at Volkel AB, flying the RF-104G and the US Air Force 10TRW - 1TRS, based at Alconbury AFB, UK flying the RF-4C Phantom. It was a 2 way rotation where eight different RF-4C aircraft came to Volkel, one replacing the other.. Dutch Starfighters which flew to the UK were RF-104G D-8013, D-8103, D-8127, D-8145.

Aircraft D-8103 taxying on the Alconbury runway
in August 1977. (Photo: Gerrit Hiemstra)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG36, based at Hopsten AB, flying the F-4F Phantom and the Italian Air Force 156 gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least Italian Starfighters flew to Germany being MM6784/36-43, MM6907/36-33 and two other unidentified aircraft.

Wonderful line-up of all four participating 36 Stormo Starfighters.
In front MM6907 with code 36-33 (Photo: Zetsche)

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 311 squadron, based at Volkel AB, flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 154 gruppo, based at Ghedi AB flying the F-104G. It was a 2 way rotation. The Starfighters which flew to Volkel AB were MM6510/6-01, MM6577/6-06, MM6542/6-11 and MM6553/6-21.


MM6510 serial 6-01 taxying to the Volkel runway, October 1977 (www)	MM6542 serial 6-11 taxying to the Volkel runway, October 1977 (www)	MM6553 serial 6-21 taxying to the Volkel runway, October 1977 (www)	MM6577 serial 6-06 taxying to the Volkel runway, Oct 1977 (Photo Paul van Oers)

This period a split squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 15 squadron, based at Laarbruch, flying the Buccaneer and the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek flying the (R)F-104G. The first period (Sept-Oct) the Germans flew with six RF-104G Starfighters to Laarbruch while later in October the English squadron flew to Eggebek in return.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 323 squadron, based at Leeuwarden AB, flying the F-104G and the German Air Force JG74, based at Neuburg AB, flying the F-4F Phantom. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Dutch Starfighters flew to Neuburg. One of them was D-8115.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Norwegian Air Force 331 Skv, based at Bodo AB, flying the F-104G and the US Air Force 526 TFS, based at Ramstein AFB, flying the F-4E Phantom. It was a 2 way rotation.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 322 squadron, based at Leeuwarden AB, flying the F-104G and the Royal Air Force 11 squadron, based at Binbrook flying the Lightning. It was a 2 way rotation. During this event a soccer game was organized at Leeuwarden where the 322sq team beat the team from Binbrook. However in Binbrook also a soccer match was organized where the British won!!
In total 322squadron flew to Binbrook with 6 Starfighters. During arrival they planned to make a flypass from the North but due to a navigation error the formation flew 3 miles South of the Airbase approaching it from the other side. The Lightnings made a fly-pass during their departure from Leeuwarden. Four aircraft flew very low “through” the trees opposite the 322squadron building. Lateron they heard that this had been a mistake. Number 4 didn’t hear that he had to fly out of his box-position. The leader expected to be able to fly low along the squadron building while number 4 was still thinking “Stick to your leader!!”…. Gladly nothing serious happened but it was an impressive fly-pass!!

F-104G D-8341 ready for takeoff with guest pilot in Lightning from
11 squadron at the runway of Leeuwarden Air Base. (photo H Schakelaar)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Norwegian Air Force 334 Skv, based at Bodo AB, flying the CF-104 and the German Navy MFG1, based at Schleswig Jagel flying the F-104G. It was a 1 way rotation where four CF-104 aircraft flew to Germany only.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Italian Air Force 23 gruppo, based at Rimini AB, flying the F-104S and the Royal Air Force 5 squadron, based at Binbrook flying the Lightning. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation. However the Italians flew to the UK where MM6827/5-30 and MM6822/5-34 arrived at Binbrook on November 7th and MM6873/5-35 and MM6922/5-36 landed a day later.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Canadian Air Force 441 squadron, based at Baden-Sollingen AB, flying the CF-104 and the Italian Air Force 10 gruppo, based at Grazzanise AB, flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Canadian CF-104s flew to Grazzanise. One of the aircraft seen at Grazzanise was 104761. Among the aircraft seen at Grazzanise were 104761 and 104892. At least aircraft 104892 was zapped with a small horse insigne.


This photo was found by Roger Seroo within the 441squadron books and shows 104761 taxying in front of the main 10 Gruppo hangar (Photo 441 squadron).	This photo was taken in 1978 at Ramstein and shows clearly the 9 Stormo insigne zapped on the fuselage added in Grazzanise AB. (Photo Paul Tips)

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Italian Air Force 132 gruppo, based at Villafranca AB, flying the (R)F-104G and the US Air Force 17 TRS. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation. No further details known.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 17 squadron, based at Bruggen and the Italian Air Force 132 gruppo, based at Villafranca AB, flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Italians came to Bruggen. Seen were MM6599/3-01, MM6533/3-03, MM6529/3-07, MM6588/3-10 (with 18gr badge). All aircraft arrived via Norvenich where they spent the night for a stop.


MM6529 code 3-07 landing at Bruggen on 12 April 1978 (Eric Tammer)	MM6533 code 3-03 landing at Bruggen on 12 April 1978 (Eric Tammer)	MM6588 code 3-10 landing at Bruggen on 12 April 1978 (Eric Tammer)	MM6599 code 3-01 landing at Bruggen on 12 April 1978 (Eric Tammer)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG31 (1st Staffel), based at Norvenich and the 493rd TFS, based at Lakenheath AFB flying the F-111F aircraft. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Germans flew to the UK. On the 18th three aircraft landed being 20+42, 22+59 and 25+37. During the rotation also TF-104Gs 27+35 and 27+84 were seen which were very likely used to give some F-111 pilots rides inside an F-104.


The three German Starfighters arriving at Lakenheath on 18th April. (Photo by : AndyMcGregor)	F-104G 22+59 being prepared for a mission at Lakenheath (photo Jim Hellinger)	Typical scenery at Lakenheath showing aircraft 25+37 and 20+42 checking their engines (photo Jim Hellinger)

	TF-104G 27+84 was likely used to give F-111 pilots and navigators the opportunity to experience the typical F-104 flight characteristics. (Photo: Jim Hellinger)
Aircraft 25+37 was one of the three participating one-seaters at Lakenheath. Note the F-111 aircraft in the back. (Photo Jim Hellinger)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Norwegian Air Force 331 and 334 Skv, based at Bodo AB and a Royal Air Force 208 squadron, flying the Buccaneer based at Honington. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Norwegians flew to the UK. On 2 May aircraft 234, 833 and 860 landed at Honington a few days followed by 240. Other aircraft were never identified but very likely these included CF-104D 637 and CF-104 836 and 800 since all got a 208sq zap applied on the aft-section around that time. It was a trio-exchange since both Bodo based squadrons participated. Pre-exchange took place on 29 March 1978 when TF-104G 38469 visited Honington. Some believe the aircraft 233 landed at Honington on May 2nd as well.


In April 2008 Tom Svendsen took a photo of this 208sq zap still found on the aft fuselage of CF-104D 637 at Bodo AB.	234 arriving at Honington 2 May 1978	833 arriving at Honington 2 May 1978

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG34, based at Memmingen AB and the Italian Air Force 156 gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Italians flew to Germany. Seen at Memmingen were aircraft MM6908/36-36, MM6911/36-39, MM6785/36-44 and MM6923/36-47.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 311 squadron based at Volkel AB flying the F-104G and the French Air Force EC 2/12 ”Cornouaille” based at Cambrai flying the Mirage F-1. It was a 2-way rotation where four Mirages flew to Holland. Also four Starfighters flew to France being F-104G D-6680, D-8114, D-8280 and D-8300.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the US Air Force 480 TFS, based at Spangdahlem AFB, flying the F-4D Phantom and the Italian Air Force 155 gruppo, based at Istrana flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Italians flew to Spangdahlem, Germany. Seen were MM6744/51-35, MM6797/51-45, MM6910/51-46 and MM6914/51-47. There was an open house at Spangdahlem AB on the 18th of June.

This month a squadron exchange took place between one of the staffels from the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek, flying the (R)F-104G and the French Navy squadron 11F, based at Landivisiau flying the Etendard. It was a one-way rotation where the French Etendard flew to Germany only.

This month another squadron exchange took place between the other staffel from the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek, flying the F-104G and the Royal Air Force 43 squadron, based at Leuchars flying the F-4 Phantom. It was a two-way rotation. Six Phantoms flew to Germany and also six F-104G Starfighters flew to the UK. Aircraft seen in the UK and receiving 43 squadron badges on their tails included 21+29, 26+55 and 26+82..

F-104G 26+55 got zapped by a 43 squadron badge
on its tail which stayed there for a long time. Here it is seen
during a visit at Soesterberg AB with still the badge on the fin.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force AG51, based at Bremgarten, flying the RF-4E Phantom and the Italian Air Force 12 gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle, flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Italians flew to Germany with aircraft MM6815/36-13 and 3 others.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG32, based at Lechfeld AB, flying the F-104G and a Royal Air Force squadron based at Coltishall flying the Jaguar. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Germans flew to the UK with aircraft 26+31 and three others. All four Starfighters departed again on 25 July 1978.
A published air-air photo showed a Jaguar flying formation with 24+97 and 21+86 but it is unclear if they flew over the UK or Germany, but looking at the ground it looks like Germany.

Jaguar in formation with two JBG32 Starfighters.
Is it taken over Germany or the UK?

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 20 squadron, based at Bruggen, Germany and Italian Air Force 102 gruppo based at Rimini flying the F-104S. It is unknown if the English aircraft flew to sunny Italy. The Italians flew to Germany with aircraft MM6845/5-02, MM6796/5-07, MM6916/5-20 and MM6844/5-21. Aircraft MM6793/5-11 and MM6842/5-14 and TF-104G MM54259/20-24 made a pre-visit to Bruggen on 20 June 1978.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the US Air Force 36 TFW (22, 53 or 525 TFS), based at Bitburg AFB, Germany, flying the F-15 Eagle and Italian Air Force 9 gruppo based at Grosseto flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation but at least four Starfighters flew to Germany.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 312 squadron, based at Volkel AB flying the F-104G and USAF 495th TFS based at Lakenheath. It was a 1-way rotation where the following Dutch Starfighters flew to the UK : D-6700, D-8245, D-8318, D-8337. Also three other 104s have been flying over to the UK but were not identified. Transport was flown by Dutch Air For ce F-27M Troopships from 334 squadron. On August 15th, these were C-7 and C-9 flying to the UK.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 323 squadron, based at Leeuwarden AB, flying the F-104G and Belgium Air Force 2 Smaldeel based at Florennes flying the Mirage 5. It was a 2-way rotation. The Dutch also flew two TF aircraft to Belgium being F-104G D-8058, D-8083, D-8090, D-8331 and TF-104G D-5702, D-5813. Aircraft D-5702 still had TCA markings.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JBG33, based at Buchel AB, Germany, flying the F-104G and Italian Air Force 154 gruppo based at Ghedi also flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation but at least four Italian Starfighters flew to Germany.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG2, based at Eggebek, Germany, flying the (R)F-104G and French Navy squadron 11F based at Landivisiau flying the Etendard. It was a 1-way rotation where six RF-104G Starfighters flew to France.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 315 squadron, based at Twenthe AB, flying the NF-5 and Italian Air Force 22 gruppo based at Istrana flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation but at least four Italian Starfighters flew to Holland. Sadly not all MMs have been identified. The aircraft were : MM6???/51-11, MM6932/51-15, MM6???/51-16 and MM6937/51-20
Aircraft MM6778/51-04 and MM6730/51-21 together with TF-104G MM54232/20-6 arrived on the 10th of October 1978 for a pre-visit.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 322 squadron, based at Leeuwarden AB, flying the F-104G and Royal Air Force 19 squadron based at Wildenrath, Germany, flying the F-4 Phantom. It was a 2-way rotation.
It was a very tragic squadron rotation where three Starfighters were involved in accidents. First on November 21st when during the landing at Wildenrath AB, Germany, D-8341 collided with D-8098 also landing and flown by Elt J.C. de Waard. The D-8341 collided with his forward cockpit section into the aftsection of the D-8098. The pilot, of the D-8341, Lt Hennie Elbersen was sadly killed instantly by this collision while the other pilot was safe but shocked about what happened. Two days later, November 23rd, aircraft D-8338, was damaged when during takeoff at Wildenrath it encountered a nose-wheel collapse. It went back to homebase Leeuwarden by road for repair on November 30th.
Soon after repair D-8338 was transferred to Volkel AB (312 squadron).The D-8341 was declared written off and the cockpit section was closed by welding. It became a tow-instruction aircraft at Volkel AB. The D-8098 was also declared written off due to the damage and the operational future (planned replacement by F-16 aircraft). It stayed at Leeuwarden as towing instructional aircraft.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the US Air Force 26TRW, based at Zweibrucken AFB, flying the RF-4C and the Italian Air Force 28 gruppo based at Villafranca, flying the RF-104G. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 306 squadron, based at Volkel AB flying the RF-104G and a Portugese Air Force (Fueza Area Portugese) squadron/esquadron based at Monte Real AB. Most likely this was Esquadra 51 or 201. It was a 1-way rotation where Dutch Starfighters flew to Portugal. Sadly the aircraft were not identified.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the French Air Force Escadre de Chasse 2/11, based at Toul-Rousieres, flying the Jaguar A and Italian Air Force 10 gruppo based at Grazzanise flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation.

There are reports that this year also a squadron exchange took place between the Belgium Air Force 10 Wing 31 Smaldeel, flying the F-104G and Italian Air Force 23 gruppo based at Rimini flying the F-104S. Sadly no more details are known.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG1 based at Schleswig Jagel flying the F-104G and the French Navy squadron 11F based at Landivisiau flying the Super Etendard. It was a one-way rotation where four German Starfighters flew to France.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 312 squadron based at Volkel AB flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 21 gruppo based at Cameri AB flying the F-104S. It was a two way rotation. Italian aircraft involved were MM6930/53-04, MM6737/53-11, MM6935/53-15 and MM6807/53-16. On the 23rd April the aircraft MM6881/53-12, MM6825/53-20 came along to see goodbye. Pre-exchange toke place on April 3rd by two Starfighters MM54260/20-25 and MM6737/53-11. Dutch Starfighters which flew to Cameri were F-104G D-6668, D-6670, D-8245, D-8281. Aircraft D-6670 received some nice tiger paintings on the tiptank-tips.

MM6881 coded 53-12 visited Volkel Air Base on April 23rd.
That day it was typical Dutch weather...lots of rain.
(Photo Traditiekamer Typhoon via Jeroen Jonkers)

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG1 based at Schleswig Jagel flying the F-104G and the Canadian Armed Forces 441 squadron within 1 CAG flying the CF-104. It was a one-way rotation where eight (!!!!) Canadian Starfighters flew to Schleswig Jagel. The 441 squadron book stated the period ended on 4 May and they operated with six CF-104 and one CF-104D aircraft. It was a shifted exchange since the MFG1 went to Baden Sollingen late September and stayed until early October with six F-104G Starfighters.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the French Air Force EC 2/3 based at Nancy AB flying the Mirage and the Italian Air Force 154 gruppo based at Ghedi AB flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a one or two way rotation but at least the Italians flew to France.
Aircraft involved were MM6532/6-03, MM6507/6-06 and MM6502/6-25. It is likely that a 4th aircraft was participating but could not be identified.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 322/323 squadron based at Leeuwarden AB flying the F-104G and the Royal Air Force 14 Squadron based at Bruggen AB, Germany. It was a one-way rotation where four Dutch Starfighters were guests. These were D-6655, D-8049, D-8089, D-8093 and D-8272.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 311 squadron based at Volkel AB flying the F-104G and the German Air Force JBG34 based at Memmingen AB flying also the F-104G. It was a 2-way rotation. German Starfighters seen at Volkel were: 20+05, 22+41, 22+44, 22+55 and 24+98. Pre-exchange was on April 19th by aircraft 22+61 and 27+22. Dutch Starfighter which flew to Germany were D-6684, D-8022, D-8048, D-8266 and D-8300.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 19 squadron based at Wildenrath AB flying the F-4 Phantom and the Italian Air Force 10 gruppo based at Grazzanise AB flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2-way rotation where at least the Italians flew to Wildenrath, Germany. Aircraft involved were MM6768/9-30, MM6772/9-31, MM6878/9-40, MM6929/9-46. On 18 April 1979 the aircraft MM6941/9-32 and MM6878/9-40 made a pre-visit to discuss the squadron exchange. Support was flown by C-130H MM61992 code 46-06 and DC-6 MM61922 code 31-26.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 92 squadron based at Wildenrath AB flying the F-4 Phantom and both Norwegian Air Force squadrons 331 and 334 Skv. flying the F-104G and CF-104. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2-way rotation but at least Norwegian Starfighters flew to Germany. Aircraft seen at Wildenrath were: F-104Gs 232, 240, 631 and CF-104s 104717, 104755 and 104766.

This month a squadron exchange took place between a German Navy MFG2 (staffel nr 1) flying the RF-104G and the also RF-104G operating Dutch Air Force 306 squadron based at Volkel AB.
It was a two-way rotation where five Dutch recce Starfighters flew to Germany and six German aircraft flew to Holland being 21+07, 21+15, 21+19, 21+22, 21+23 and 23+22 all RF-104Gs. The five Dutch aircraft were D-8052, D-8059, D-8107, D-8125 and D-8145.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the RAF 11sq flying the Lightning at Binbrook and the Belgium Air Force 10 Wing 23 Smaldeel based at Kleine Brogel AB flying the F-104G Starfighter. It was likely a two-way rotation. At least the Lightnings came to Kleine Brogel AB. It was a two-way rotation. Aircraft seen at Binbrook included the F-104Gs FX45 and FX78.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 1 squadron based at Wittering AB flying the Hawker Harrier and the Italian Air Force 155 gruppo based at Istrana flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least four Starfighters flew to Wittering. Aircraft seen were MM6837/51-32, MM6839/51-50, MM6844/51-56 and MM6945/51-37.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force trainingsquadron WS10 based at Jever AB flying the F and TF-104G, and the Italian Air Force 23 gruppo based at Rimini flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least four Italian Starfighters flew to Germany and flew back via Norvenich AB. The aircraft were MM6782/5-03, MM6925/5-30, MM6???/5-34 and MM6928/5-36.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force composite 645 squadron (322 + 323 squadron) at Leeuwarden AB flying the F-104G and some new F-16 aircraft and the Italian Air Force 9 gruppo based at Grosseto AB flying the F-104S. It was a 2 way rotation. The Italians used this rotation to challenge themselves during dogfights with the brand new F-16 fighters. Italian Starfighters seen at Leeuwarden were MM6819/4-11, MM6822/4-1, MM6869/4-3 and MM6936/4-6. All aircraft flew via Bitburg (fuelstop). Dutch Starfighters seen in Grosseto were D-8082, D-8093, D-8109, D-8115 and D-8319. It is very likely that a pre-visit took place on April 24th since that day TF-104G MM54251/20-15 and the two F-104S MM6739/4-10 and MM6869/4-3 were seen at Volkel Air Base for a fuel stop. However we still need some confirmation that indeed these aircraft visited Leeuwarden that day.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the German Navy MFG1 based at Schleswig Jagel flying the F-104G and the Canadian Armed Forces 441 squadron within 1CAG based at Baden Sollingen flying the CF-104. It was a one-way rotation where six Starfighters flew to Germany. It looks like a follow up rotation after the 1-way rotation in April/May 1979 where the Canadians came to Schleswig.

This month there was a rotation between the German Air Force JBG31 (2nd Staffel) based at Norvenich AB, flying the F-104G and the Royal Air Force 12 squadron based at Honington AB flying the Buccaneer. It was a 2 way rotation where six Starfighters flew to Honington.

This period a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 14 squadron based at Bruggen flying the Sepecat Jaguar and the Italian Air Force 156 gruppo based at Gioia del Colle flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least the Italians flew to Bruggen. MM 6817???/36-11, MM6915/36-41, MM6???/36-51, MM6???/36-55 while some other reports stated that aircraft MM6846/36-57 participated as well. Pre-visit took place by MM6774/36-03 and MM6926/36-12 arriving on 27 and returning back to Italy on 28 August 1979.

This month a squadron exchange took place between the Royal Air Force 4 squadron based at Gutersloh AB flying the Hawker Harrier GR3 and the Dutch Air Force composite 645 squadron (322 + 323 squadron) based at Leeuwarden AB flying the F-104G and some new F-16 aircraft. It was a 2 way rotation where 4 Harriers came to Leeuwarden AB and six Starfighters flew to Gutersloh.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the German Air Force JG74 based at Neuburg AB flying the F-4F Phantom and the Italian Air Force 12 gruppo, based at Gioia del Colle flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Hellenic Air Force 349 flying the F-5 and the Italian Air Force 22 gruppo, based at Istrana flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Hellenic Air Force 348 Mira based at Larissa AB flying the RF84F + RF-4E and the Italian Air Force 28 gruppo, based at Villafranca flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation. The 348 Mira just received new RF-4s from Germany so actually the Greece pilot flew only the Flashes during the squadron exchange.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Belgium Air Force 42 smaldeel based at Florennes AB flying the Mirage 5 and the Italian Air Force 102 gruppo, based at Rimini flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the French Air Force EC1/3 flying the Mirage 3E and the Italian Air Force 132 gruppo, based at Villafranca flying the F-104G. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation.

This month there was a rotation between the Dutch Air Force 311 squadron based at Volkel AB, flying the F-104G and the Royal Air Force 5 squadron based at Binbrook flying the Lightning. It was a 2 way rotation where four Lightnings came to Volkel AB, one of them was replaced by another Lightning on the 24th. On March 21st six Dutch aircraft flew to Binbrook being D-8047, D-8048, D-8244, D-8257, D-8258 and D-8266. Two aircraft (D-8257 and D-8258) received 5squadron markings on their tails. Also one Lightning received 311squadron badges in return. (Note: It is very likely that one of the Dutch Starfighters has been replaced by D-8022 at the end of the exchange since it was noticed on photographs)


Line up of Dutch Starfighters and English Lightnings at Binbrook. Note the 5sq markings on the tail of two Starfighters. Aircraft in front are D-8022 and D-8047. (Photo: Documentatie Group Volkel Typhoon)	Photo taken at Volkel Air Base showing one Lightning fighter together with two Starfighters just before the break.. (Hans van Zeeland).	Photo taken at Volkel Air Base showing one Lightning fighter together with two Starfighters on the runway. (Hans van Zeeland).

This month there was a rotation between the German Air Force JG71 based at Wittmund AB, flying the F-4F Phantom and the Italian Air Force 10 gruppo based at Grazzanise AB flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a one or 2 way rotation but at least the Starfighters flew to Germany with 4 Starfighters. Sadly the serials are unknown.

This year a squadron exchange took place between the Dutch Air Force 306 squadron, based at Volkel AB flying the RF-104G and Portugese Air Force (Fueza Area Portugese) esquadro 103 based at Monte Real AB flying the T-33A. It was a 1-way rotation where Dutch Starfighters flew to Portugal. The aircraft were D-8107, D-8138, D-8273 and one unknown TF-104G.
Transport was flown by Fokker F-27M Troopships from 334 squadron (C-6, C-8, C-11, C-12). The starfighters flew to Portugal via Istress AB in France where they made a fuelstop.

This month there was a rotation between the US Air Force 50TFW based at Hahn AB, flying the F-4E Phantom and the Italian Air Force 21 gruppo based at Cameri AB flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a one or 2 way rotation but at least thee Starfighters flew to Germany. Sadly the serials are unknown.

This period there was a rotation between the Dutch Air Force 322/323 (645 composite) squadron based at Leeuwarden AB, flying the F-104G and F-16, and the Belgium Air Force 1 smaldeel based at Bierset flying the Mirage 5. It was a 2 way rotation and only Starfighters flew to Belgium, no F-16s yet.

This month MFG2 based at Eggebek, Germany, flying the Starfighter, rotated with French Navy squadron 11F based at Landivisiau flying the Super Etendard. It was a 1 way rotation where four RF-104G recce Starfighters flew to France.

This month a squadron exchange took place between Hellenic Air Force 336Mira "Olympus" from Araxos AB, flying the F-104G, with the Dutch Air Force 312 squadron at Volkel AB flying also the F-104G. Four Greek Starfighters came to Volkel but did not fly much mainly due to the weather conditions. On July 4th only two Greek Starfighters flew a mission and on July 7th all Greek Starfighters flew a mission and that was it.. Participating aircraft at Volkel were TF-104G 62-12278/TF-278 and F-104Gs 62-12317/FG-317, 63-12715/FG-715 and 63-12720/FG-720. On June 19th the TF-104G 62-12278 visited Volkel AB for a pre-visit and stayed the night. The Dutch Starfighters which flew to Greece were D-6668, D-6681, D-8063, D-8282, D-8308 and two seater D-5807.

Aircraft FG-715 and FG-317 lining up on the runway of
Volkel Air Base on July 7th. (Photo: Eric Tammer)

This month there was a rotation between the German Air Force JBG31 (1st Staffel) based at Norvenich AB, flying the F-104G and the Italian Air Force 156 gruppo based at Gioia del Colle AB flying the F-104S. It was a 2 way rotation where four Italian Starfighters flew to Germany being MM6747/36-37, MM6789/36-42, MM6909/36-51 and MM6838/36-55.
In Italy, on July 17th, Hptm Burmann and HFw Reifenrath planned a TF-104G trip to the Etna. During the take-off they encountered a bird hit and they had to break off the start….entering the cable with the hook. Everything finished ok. After the technicians had checked the aircraft carefully the aircraft was soon declared OK again and the two German pilots could again take off for the Etna.


F-104S MM6909 coded 36-51 and MM6789 coded 36-42 flying formation with one of the Norvenich Starfighters over the Eiffel area.	F-104S MM6909 coded 36-51 and MM6789 coded 36-42 flying formation with one of the Norvenich Starfighters over the Eiffel area.	F-104S MM6909 code 36-51 from 156gruppo is taxying at Norvenich during the exchange.

This month 23gruppo from Rimini, Italy rotated with RAF 19 squadron based at Wildenrath and operating the English version of the F-4 Phantom. It is unknown if it was a 1 or 2 way rotation but at least four Italian aircraft were seen at Wildenrath being MM6942/5-35, MM6805/5-40, MM6714/5-41 and MM6767/5-45. On July 4th two F-104S aircraft made a pre-visit. They were MM6792/5-15 and MM6942/5-35.

MM6942 code 5-35 and MM6767 code 5-45 in front of a shelter
at Wildenrath in July 1980 during the squadron rotation.

This period 331skv 334skv from Rygge AB, Norway, flying the F-104G and CF-104, rotated with RAF 17 squadron based at Bruggen flying the Jaguar. It was a 1-way rotation where the Norwegians flew to Germany. The 331Skv brought F-104G 633, 785 and TF-104G 263 while 334Skv brought CF-104 717, 759 and 850.


F-104G 633 landing at Bruggen (Hans van Zeeland)	F-104G 717 landing at Bruggen (Hans van Zeeland)	TF-104G 263 landing at Bruggen (Hans van Zeeland)	CF-104 759 landing at Bruggen (Hans van Zeeland)	CF-104 850 landing at Bruggen (Hans van Zeeland)	Norwegian 104s on the Bruggen runway during their departure back home on August 14th. (Hans van Zeeland)

This month German Air Force JBG34 based at Memmingen AB, flying the F-104G, rotated with RAF 41 squadron flying the Jaguar, based at Coltishall. It was a 2 way rotation. Seen at Coltishall was for example TF-104G 27+39 (see photo beneath).

This period MFG1 based at Schleswig Jagel, Germany, flying the Starfighter, rotated with Royal Air Force 29 squadron based at Coningsby flying the F-4 Phantom. It was a 2 way rotation where five F-104G Starfighters flew to the UK and the Royal Air Force brought five F-4s to Germany as well.

In September 1980 the Dutch Air Force 316 squadron at Gilze Rijen AFB paid a visit to Villafranca with a number of NF-5 aircraft. In October 1980 the Italians from 28 gruppo paid a visit back to Gilze Rijen with four Starfighters of which only MM6582/3-35 was identified. All together this makes it a 2-way delayed rotation.

This month 155gruppo from Istrana, Italy rotated with the Belgium 23 Smaldeel (10 Wing) at Kleine Brogel AB still flying the F-104G. Italian aircraft seen at Kleine Brogel on the 14th of October were :
MM6837/51-32, MM6749/51-41, MM6835/51-42 and MM6944/51-55. It is unknown if also Belgium Starfighters flew to Istrana.

This month 154 gruppo from Ghedi, Italy rotated with RAF 3 squadron based at Gutersloh flying the Harrier GR3 aircraft. At this RAF airbase in Germany the Italians participated with 4 aircraft : MM6532/6-03, MM6559/6-06, MM6546/6-10 and MM6558/6-24. It is unknown if the RAF aircraft also flew to Italy.

This month the Canadian Air Force 1CAG based at Baden-Sollingen AB, flying the CF-104 flew to Tanagra for a 1-way rotation. One of the participating aircraft was 104815. It has not yet been confirmed as rotation but these 4 aircraft have been at this airbase for a lot of days.

This year the Belgium Air Force 350 smaldeel (1 Wing) based at Beauvechain AB, flying the F-104G, rotated with Italian Air Force 9 gruppo based at Grosseto flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation but at least four Italian Starfighters flew to Belgium although their identities are sadly still unknown.

This year the Danish Air Force 723 Eskader based at Aalborg AB, flying the F-104G, rotated with Italian Air Force 22 gruppo based at Istrana flying the F-104S. It is unknown if it was a 1 or a 2 way rotation.


Aircraft MM6721 with code 4-11 taxying at Coningsby.	Aircraft MM6869 with code 4-3 taxying at Coningsby.


Here the group at Leeuwarden together with the English visitors	Here the group at Gutersloh just after arrival.