In April 1978, the first production German Alpha Jet made its maiden flight and deliveries commenced just under a year later. It was designated the Alpha Jet A (A standing for Appui Tactique or "Tactical Support") or Alpha Jet Close Support variant. The Luftwaffe obtained a total of 175 aircraft up to 1983, with the type being used to replace the Fiat G91R/3 fleet. This example is part of this very interesting collection.

VAK stands for the German equivalent of VTOL/reconaisannce/strike fighter and the 191B was intended to operate after a Soviet first strike on West German airfields. The type was intended to eventually serve as a replacement for the Fiat G.91 but, after suffering from a protracted development cycle, the focus of programme development was changed to test-fly a limited number of prototypes, using the VAK 191B effectively as a technology demonstrator and experimental aircraft for VFW. A total of 91 flights were performed prior to the retirement of all three prototypes in 1975.

This Flogger was previously 702 with the NVA but became 2048 upon German re-unification. The frame carries the number 7 under the canopy on the port side.

A French Noratlas hidden away in an interesting but very cramped German collection. Although it is still carrying the combined unit markings of ET 2/63 on the forward fuselage, this aircraft in fact last operated for Escadron de Convoyage 70 (EdC 70). It came to Germany in 1987 and spent some time in storage at Manching before moving on to this collection in Koblenz in 1990.

Even though still carrying the combined unit markings of ET 1/63 and ET 1/62 on the forward fuselage, this Noratlas in fact last operated for Escadron de Convoyage 70 (EdC 70). This French unit was known for its unusual codes, which often violated many rules. This particular Noratlas carried code 070-MF (should have been 70-MF), which for reasons unknown was painted on the aircraft incorrectly, as MF-070. It came to Germany in 1987 and spent some time in storage at Manching before moving on to this collection in Koblenz in 1990.

Note the extra 'tail' and elevator assembly in the centre of the fuselage. The aircraft had been used for experimental work. Previously German Air Force 2391.

Note French Norartlas 199 / MF-070 in the back.