To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Belgian Air Force, the 2026 International Sanicole Airshow will proudly present a true icon of Belgian aviation history: the legendary SV-4, flown in a spectacular four-ship formation by The Pinguins.
Built in Antwerp by the renowned Stampe & Vertongen factory, the SV-4 first took to the skies in 1933. It entered Belgian Air Force service in 1948, chosen over the Chipmunk, and went on to train generations of military pilots. More than just a trainer, the SV-4 later served as a glider tug for air cadets, remaining in service until 1975.
Early examples, powered by Gipsy engines, wore an elegant silver-and-yellow scheme, while later Cirrus-powered aircraft became instantly recognisable in their striking all-orange livery.
The Belgian Air Force’s own SV-4 display team, the famous Manchots (Penguins), took their name from the emblem of the Elementary Flight Training School at Goetsenhoeven. In honour of that historic team, the Antwerp-based formation “The Pinguins” will bring four beautifully restored SV-4s back to life in the skies. Painstakingly restored by Raymond Aircraft Restorations, two of these aircraft in the formation represent authentic operational colour schemes from their Air Force service days.
Expect a graceful, flowing formation display with elegant passes that highlight the timeless lines and unmistakable charm of this classic Belgian biplane — a true living tribute to the pilots who began their journeys and professional adventures in its cockpits.
Don’t miss this unique piece of flying heritage at the Sanicole Airfield in Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium, during the weekend of 12–13 September 2026.
