HISTORY. The newest of the Philippine Air Force's aerobatics teams, the Golden Sabres of the 9^th Tactical Fighter Squadron was established in March 1972 to demonstrate the precision flying skills which PAF pilots are capable of achieving. All maneuvers of the team are basically the same as what every fighter pilot does and the aircraft, which they fly, are unimpaired in their combat capabilities with the exception of smoke generators to enhance public viewing. The Golden Sabres and heir aircraft are combat ready and at a moment's notice can cut short their demonstration, load fuel, ammunition and missiles and be ready to perform their combat missions.

In their repertoire are maneuver sequences like the whifferdill, loop, roll left, loop in trail switch, roll in trail switch left, solo stunt, loop to bomb burst, cross-under, rejoin, solo stunt, 360 degree level turn (dirty), 360 degree level turn (clean) to whifferdill and pitch out & landing.

THE AIRCRAFT. The F-86F is a single seater, high performance day fighter basically designed as a high altitude and high speed fighter aircraft. It is used effectively for ground support having provisions for external installations of bombs, rockets and missiles.

Having been maintained effectively by pilots and maintenance men of the Philippine Air Force, the F-86F will stay as an effective deterring force of this country for a long time to come.