After 57 years, and a significant role in Chilean history, the Hawker Hunter combat aircraft are being removed from all static displays and monuments across Chile.
From October 1966 until the mid-90s, these aircraft were the main attack force of the Chilean Air Force (FACh), due to their unique characteristics such as excellent flight capabilities, payload, versatility, and combat readiness. 21 of these aircraft arrived in Chile and were distributed between the former Cerrillos Air Base (Group 7) and the Puerto Montt Air Base (Group 9).
In addition to being part of the Air Force fleet, the Hunter’s principal contribution was the bombing of the Chilean Government House, known as «La Moneda Palace,» during the infamous coup d’état on September 11, 1973. Photos and video records bear testimony to the effectiveness of the attack.
Following their retirement in 1996, the Hunters (or «Cazadores» as they were internally referred to), were installed as Gatekeepers in FACh air bases and squares near these bases. However, months before the 50th anniversary of the coup, these former fighters, now monuments, are being removed. The FACh has not provided details or reasons for this action.
Some rumors suggest that the removal may be in response to signals the current government requested from the Armed Forces concerning the events of 1973. The request would have involved «symbolic gestures,» such as commemorative plaques in military facilities or the retirement of personnel associated with the 1973 Military Coup.
