Thunderbirds Welcome New Lead Solo Pilot Captain Marcus Chen

The Thunderbirds welcomed Captain Marcus Chen as their new Lead Solo pilot during a ceremony at Nellis Air Force Base last week.

Captain Chen brings over 1,200 hours in the F-16 Fighting Falcon following combat deployments to the Middle East. He previously served with the 57th Wing at Nellis before selection to the demonstration team.

The Lead Solo position, designated Thunderbird #5, performs single-ship maneuvers that showcase the F-16’s capabilities while opposing solo pilot Thunderbird #6 sets up for dramatic opposing passes. The role requires exceptional flying skills and precise timing.

Captain Chen completed an intensive three-month training program learning the team’s 40+ maneuvers and formation procedures. His first public performance is scheduled for the Las Vegas Air Show in March.

The Thunderbirds rotate pilots every two to three years, allowing experienced aviators to share the demonstration mission while returning operational experience to combat units. Each year, hundreds of pilots apply for the handful of available positions.

The team begins its 2025 season in March with an aggressive schedule of over 70 performances at locations across North America.