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  5. 1972/07 - First light utility transport aircraft
First generation (1968 to 1984)

1972/07 - First light utility transport aircraft

Skyvan

1972

The SADC acquired six Skyvans, which were operated by 121 Squadron at Changi Air Base.

The SADC acquired six Skyvans, which were operated by 121 Squadron at Changi Air Base. They performed troop lifts as well as Search and Locate missions. The Skyvan could carry a team of six for maritime air surveillance missions, including a pilot, a co-pilot, a navigator, a loadmaster, a Navy action information coordinator, and a Navy radar operator. In later years, the Skyvans were assigned to maritime air surveillance missions in the seas surrounding Singapore.

Two RSAF aircraft in flight, one painted white with red stripe and the other in dark camouflage.

The Skyvan was also used to fly important guests to neighbouring countries; in 1979, a Skyvan brought Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew and 12 ministers and senior public servants to Batam.

RSAF personnel holding a banner celebrating 50,000 accident-free flying hours in front of aircraft.

The Skyvan fleet of 121 Squadron clocked 50,000 hours of accident-free operations on 21 February 1987.

Embroidered badge showing aircraft and text celebrating 50,000 accident-free hours by Gannets.

A badge to mark 121 Squadron's 50,000 accident-free hours.

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