85 Combat Flying School
85 Combat Flying School has its origin from the Air Operational School that was stationed at Langebaanweg. On 4 October 1967 it moved to Pietersburg and the name changed to Advanced Flying School, the name 85 Combat Flying School was given to the unit in 1982.
Initially Advanced Flying School operated Vampires till these aircraft were replaced by the Impala in 1970. Mirage III aircraft were attached to the unit in 1974 and Sabres from 1 Squadron in 1975. The Sabre was withdrawn from service in 1978.
Due to the demands on the existing Impala and Mirage flights, ministerial approval was granted to establish a new flying school that would take over the role of Mirage flight. On 1 July 1986, 89 Combat Flying School was established and 85 Combat Flying School became solely responsible for all Impala combat training in the South African Air Force.
The unit has also seen operational service in the SouthWest Africa/Angolan conflict as well as in various cross border strikes against terrorist camps in neighbouring countries.
The unit received its unit colours on their 21st birthday on 4 October 1988 and national colours a year later. During September 1992, 85 Combat Flying School celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary. For this occasion Atlas Aviation painted an Impala Mk 2 in the unit colours, known as the Gannet, which is flown at open days and public shows. Due to the rationalisation programme Air Force Base Pietersburg was closed and the unit was relocated to Air Force Base Hoedspruit on 1 January 1993.
83 Jet Flying School Langebaanweg was also closed and now forms part of 85 Combat FS, with the Silver Falcon aerobatics team.
At present the unit operates the Impala Mk I and II aircraft, in the training role, but should the need arise, the unit can be employed in an operational role and live up to its motto: Detrimento Sumus "We are Destructive"
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