Hunter reported down in sea off USA pilot ejected and recovered OK

Anon. The answer is provided if you read through the links I have already posted, but to cut to the chase the specific you sought is within this brochure: http://www.atacusa.com/pdfs/ATAC_wings_gold_brochure.pdf

That’ll explain why it had a live ejection seat, without which the pilot probably would not have made it out alive.

How many do they have? It’s still a fast and capable aircraft, with spares available so, why not? OK, it’s low-tech but if all they need is a quick and nimble (and very attractive!) radar target they probably don’t come much cheaper – at least in the present operating climate.

Anon.

As Bruce said a civilian contractor providing services to the US military. Operators have used Kfirs and Alphajets similarly. Saw some Alphajets landing on North Island San Diego when I was there recently.

https://videos.lesechos.fr/lesechos/sujet-actus/la-france-vend-63-mirages-doccasion-aux-etats-unis/ruz8uv%27

You would not be wrong in that assumption.

I believe ATAC has purchased 63 Mirage F1s from the French MoD.

“ATAC provides aircraft and services to the US military…”

After 60 or so years since it was developed, the Hawker Hunter is good enough to be still providing a service to the U.S. military. That is some record.

ATAC is a well established operator – their website provides a detailed and fascinating insight to their business model and operations: http://www.atacusa.com/index.html

Well now ! I wonder who or what pays for it. It must be paid for either directly or indirectly by the US military ? Which would make it in their service.

No, and it never was – it was a civilian operated aircraft operating in support of Navy exercises.

I’m amazed ! Does this confirm that the beautiful and so elegant Hunter is in service with the US military ? Still !

Might actually be good news for those in the UK trying to sell theirs as they probably need a replacement.