Vampire (Manawatu) Traditional Cache

This is the forth in our “Fixed Wing Aircraft of RNZAF Base Ohakea” series.

Cache is small so BYOP.

The RNZAF operated 57 DH100 and DH115 Vampires from 1952. These were the first jet aircraft in the RNZAF’s inventory. 75 Squadron operated them from Ohakea while 14 Squadron operated leased ones overseas and in the brief period after the Canberra but before the Strikemaster.

The aircraft was single pilot and was used for pilot training and strike.

With its twin-tail design it casts a very recognizable silhouette.

The current Ohakea gate guardian is a DH100 Vampire, NZ5772.