picture 191464

Another type regularly deployed to Bangui International – and from there to different hot spots in Africa during the 1980s and 1990s – was the Breguet BR.1150 Atlantic. Designed as an anti-submarine and maritime patrol aircraft, and operated by Aéronavale (French Naval aviation), it was used for a wide range of purposes in the CAR and Chad, ranging from acting as a makeshift early warning aircraft, to reconnaissance, and as ELINT/SIGINTgatherer. Camouflage colours included azur blue on top surfaces and flat white on lower surfaces and sides, while national insignia was worn in four positions. As indicated by the insignia shown in inset, it was drawn from the Flottille 23F. (Artwork by Tom Cooper)