Active 1979-2015 Garrison/HQ Paya Lebar Air Base | Role Fighter-bomber Motto(s) "Dare To Excel" | |
 | ||
Equipment Twenty-two F-5S/T Tiger-IIs Identification
symbol A stylized black kite set against a bow and arrow | ||
The 144 Squadron "Blackite" of the Republic of Singapore Air Force is a fighter-bomber squadron based at Paya Lebar Air Base, the squadron goes by the motto "Dare To Excel" with the black kite adopted as its mascot.
Contents
History
144 Squadron was formed in 1979 as one of the RSAF's fighter squadrons operating in the interceptor role, catapulting the RSAF into the supersonic era upon delivery of the original F-5E/F Tiger. The squadron initially operated the supersonic F-5E/F Tiger II fighter aircraft, but has been operating the locally modified & improved F-5S/T Tiger-IIs fighter aircraft since the early 1990s, these were retrofitted with new state-of-the-art avionics giving the aircraft capability of carrying out both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
Achievements
The squadron clinched the coveted Best Fighter Squadron award (Singapore Armed Forces Best Unit Competition) in 1995, 2005, 2009, and 2015. It first won the title in 1995. It is regarded by many as the best fighter squadron in the RSAF, having dominated many local and international exercises. Operating the oldest fighter platform in the RSAF ORBAT requires superior skills, capability and professionalism, thus the squadron handpicks the top pilot graduates to join the team.
Mascot
The Blackite is 144 Squadron's adopted mascot. The Squadron's “Dare to Excel” motto amplifies the Blackite character; a mysterious bird that is unpredictable and deadly, but strikes her prey with precision and readiness at all times. Coupled with team excellence, perseverance, dedication and professionalism, the men and women of 144 Squadron Team Blackites do “Dare to Excel”.
Aircraft operated
- 15× F-5S & 7× F-5T Tiger-IIs (1979–2015)