Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup invited and encouraged pilots and related personnel

Called for publicizing of the South Korean military’s superiority and defense industry technology

Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup (middle) encourages pilots, maintenance personnel, and aerial photography staff of the Black Eagles, The Republic of Korea Air Force Aerobatic Team. He also poses for a picture with them at the Defense Ministry building in Yongsan-gu, Seoul on June 20. Provided by the Ministry of National Defense

Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup encouraged pilots and related personnel of the Republic of Korea Air Force Aerobatic Team, Black Eagles, at the Defense Ministry building in Yongsan-gu, Seoul on June 20.

The event was attended by eight people including Black Eagles pilots, maintenance personnel, and aerial photography staff.

The Black Eagles participated in a total of 10 domestic and international air shows this year. In May, it demonstrated sophisticated aerobatics in an air show at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2023) in Malaysia, and received applause from the audience.

The Black Eagles team clinched two prizes last year – the King Hussein Memorial Sword and As the Crow Flies Trophy – for the best overall flying display at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) 2022. This year, the team, participating for the first time, won the Best Overall Display at the Australian International Airshow and Aerospace & Defence Exposition (AVALON).

Minister Lee had shared a meal with the Black Eagles pilots and related personnel, during which time he listened to their stories and recognized their efforts.

Minister Lee said, “I was greatly impressed with your perfect teamwork as well as superior skills. I am proud that pilots, maintenance personnel and photography staff were united to impress the world.”

He added, “I hope that, as a defense diplomacy delegation, you will actively promote the superiority of the South Korean armed forces and the technology of our defense industry around the world.”

By Chae-Mu, Im <lims86@dema.mil.kr > 

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