144 Squadron, Republic of Singapore Air Force

The 144 Squadron "Blackite" of the Republic of Singapore Air Force is a fighter-bomber squadron based at Paya Lebar Air Base, the squadron goes by the motto "Dare To Excel" with the Black Kite adopted as its mascot.

History
144 Squadron was formed in 1979 as one of the RSAF's fighter squadrons operating in the interceptor role, catapulting the RSAF into the supersonic era upon delivery of the original F-5E/F Tiger. The squadron initially operated the supersonic F-5E/F Tiger II fighter aircraft, but has been operating the locally modified & improved F-5S/T Tiger-IIs fighter aircraft since the early 1990s, these were retrofitted with new state-of-the-art avionics giving the aircraft capability of carrying out both Air-to Air and Air-to-Ground missions.

Achievements
The squadron clinch the coveted Best Fighter Squadron award (Singapore Armed Forces Best Unit Competition) in 2005,2009 it last won the title in 1995. It is regarded by many as the best fighter squadron in the RSAF, having dominated many local and international exercises. Operating the oldest fighter platform in the RSAF obart requires superior skills, capabilitiy and professionalism, thus the squadron handpicks the top pilot graduates to join the team.

Mascot
The Blackite is 144 Squadron's adopted mascot. The Squadron's “Dare to Excel” motto amplifies the Blackite character; a mysterious bird that is unpredictable and deadly, but strikes her prey with precision and readiness at all times. Coupled with team excellence, perseverance, dedication and professionalism, the men and women of 144 Squadron Team Blackites do “Dare to Excel”.

Aircraft operated

 * 1) 15× F-5S & 7× F-5T Tiger-IIs (1979–present)