Hello,
I am currently researching several Hawk airframes for a web project, and would like to know more on the colour schemes employed at Valley.
Obviously when the Hawks entered service, they were finished in the attractive red/white training colours that were adopted with the Hunter and Gnat.
However, my question is when did the 'new' scheme of red/white/blue start to be applied?
My guess at the moment is mid-1980s, but some Hawks retained the older style scheme until at least 1991.
Therefore, was the blue only applied after a major overhaul?
An example image can be seen via the link below... is that the CFS badge on the fin?
BAE Systems Hawk T1, XX175, Royal Air Force
Also, can any PPRuNe members suggest when the decision was made to paint all the RAF training airframes black, and at what point did the first Hawk(s) appear in this scheme?
I am sure an 'evaluation' took place somewhere, with alternative schemes being trialled?
Was the Hawk the testbed? If so which colours (and dare I ask airframes) were involved?
Kind regards, and thanks for your time!
Mark