F-100 Super Sabre: Restoring RAF Lakenheath's history

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kris Levasseur
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  The F-100 that has been on display near RAF Lakenheath's Gate 1 since 1977 was removed and transported to the Paint Barn for refurbishment June 23.

The F-100 Super Sabre first touched down at RAF Lakenheath January 6, 1960. It was the 48th Tactical Fighter Wing's premier fighter, replacing the F-86 Sabre.

The 48th FW is responsible for the upkeep of the F-100 according to a loan contract with the Air Force Museum. More than 50 people from several base organizations assisted with the move.

F-100s from the 493rd Tactical Fighter Squadron were the first aircraft to touch down at RAF Lakenheath during the move from Chaumont Air Base, France.

Several areas displayed signs of corrosion during the annual inspection, said Sergeant Peets. The paint was also noted to have deteriorated.

"The restoration will include the removal of several skin panels which will need to be re-made. We will also remove all the current decals, sand the aircraft down and repaint it to original specifications."

During the Liberty Wing's stay at Chaumont Air Base, the lead aircraft was the F-86 Sabre.

"The F-100 is a vital part of the Liberty Wing's history," said James Pankau, 48th Fighter Wing historian.

The Liberty Wing first received word in 1955 while based at Chaumont Air Base, France it would be changing out its F-86 Sabre's for a newer aircraft - the F-100 Super Sabre. As members of the 48th Fighter Bomber Wing into a new air frame, they also transitioned into a new country. The Liberty Wing moved to RAF Lakenheath in 1960, starting with the F-100's from the 493rd Tactical Fighter Squadron. The F-100 held its position over the skies in Europe until the last F-100 left RAF Lakenheath's runway April 15, 1972.

"The move was a big success," said Tech Sgt. Jeff Peets, 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron corrosion manager. "The coordination of seven base agencies, all working together went exceptionally well. The whole process went smoothly and took less than six hours from start to finish."

The F-100 will be away from its post for approximately five weeks.