Dakota Thunder 2011 Date Announced

Published March 10, 2011
By Steven J. Merrill
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The Ellsworth flightline will be buzzing with a variety of military and civilian aerobatic teams in the skies over the base, as well as numerous ground acts and static displays, June 4, during Dakota Thunder 2011.

"We're working hard to provide a dynamic mix of performers who will showcase the awesome agility, grace, precision and power of flight," said Maj. David Bennett, 37th Bomb Squadron instructor pilot and chair of Dakota Thunder 2011. "Our current list of headliners includes the F-16 Viper West demo team, MiG Fury Fighters, Trojan Horsemen T-28 demo team, and Ace Maker T-33s. Of course, the mighty B-1B will be a prominent part of the show."

In addition to action overhead, a variety of cutting edge modern and historic aircraft will be on display including the B-2 Spirit, B-52 Stratofortress, F-15E Strike Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon, F-22 Raptor, T-1A Jayhawk, T-38 Talon and a host of others.

"We're also inviting civilian aviators to participate in a fly-in to encourage awareness for civilian and military aviation in South Dakota," said Capt. Jonathan Dunn, 28th Operations Support Squadron flight commander and primary point for the civilian fly-in.

Major Bennett said new displays are being added to the show list. Updated information will be posted on the Dakota Thunder 2011 page of the Ellsworth Air Force Base web site.

For the most up-to-date list of performers and static displays, as well other information about Dakota Thunder 2011, visit www.ellsworth.af.mil/airshow/index.asp.