Panavia Tornado IDS

26 Apr 2026 · © AviatorShots81

A German Air Force Panavia Tornado IDS on the runway, displaying its swing-wing configuration and heavy underwing stores.

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Comments (1)

Katl_spotter13 · 26 Apr 2026

Excellent!

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Aircraft

Tornado IDS TOR

German Air Force (Luftwaffe) standard tactical grey

Airline

German Air Force (Luftwaffe)

Manufacturer

Panavia

Gear

Sony A7M4 Sigma 70-200mm F2.8

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Military Maverick

3 badges earned

Location

Schleswig Air Base

WBG/ETNS

54.4593, 9.5163

Open map

Schleswig Air Base WBG

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

The Panavia Tornado is a key multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed by the UK, Germany, and Italy. In service since 1979, it has played a major role in European air forces.

Fleet Rarity

As of 2024, the German Air Force remains one of the largest operators, but most Tornado fleets are in drawdown; fewer than 100 active in Germany.

Record Flights

Noted for low-level penetration missions, extensive use in the Gulf War and Balkans. No absolute distance records.

Safety & Events

Numerous operational losses in combat; played significant roles in the Gulf War, Kosovo conflict, and various NATO missions.

Future Outlook

Scheduled for gradual phase-out in favor of Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35; retirement expected by early 2030s.

Specifications

Turbo-Union RB199-34R Mk 103

Engine

13.91 meters (swept out), 8.60 meters (swept in)

Wingspan

16.72 meters

Length

1,390 km (combat radius) / 3,890 km (ferry range)

Range

900 km/h (cruise); Max speed Mach 2.2 (~2,400 km/h)

Speed

2 crew (pilot and weapons systems officer); variable bomb/ordnance payload up to 9,000 kg

Capacity

28,000 kg

MTOW

5.95 meters

Height

38.7 kN dry, 73 kN with afterburner (per engine)

Thrust

Typically ~130 dB(A) at close range; military ratings, ICAO Chapter 3 equivalent

Noise