Red Arrows: The World's Greatest Aerobatic Display Team
The Red Arrows are considered by many to be the greatest aerobatic display team in the world.
They embody the spirit of the Royal Air Force by proudly displaying the capability, daring and values of the British Armed Forces high up in the sky.
Representing the oldest independent air force in the world they fly the Union Jack all over the globe and represent the best of Britain.
The Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965 and have flown around 5,000 displays internationally.
They fly BAE Systems’ Hawk T1 fast-jets and proudly wear the iconic red design alongside the red, white and blue of the Union Jack.
Pilots who have the rare privilege of flying with 'The Reds' have diverse backgrounds.
They have completed operational tours ranging from Afghanistan to Libya.
The Red Arrows are powered by a Rolls-Royce Mk 151 engine and can reach maximum speed at sea level of 645 mph.
The team originally consisted of seven pilots flying Folland Gnat T1 jets until the team was increased to nine in 1968.
In 1980, the Gnat was replaced and the start of The Red Arrows as we know them today began.
The Red Arrow Hawk Jet Facts:
- Wingspan: 9.39 m
- Length: 11.85 m
- Height: 4.00 m
- Maximum speed at sea level: 645 mph (1037 km/h)
- Maximum altitude: 48,000 ft (15894 m)
- Empty weight: 8,000 Ibs (3628 kg)
- Max weight: 18,390 Ibs (8330 kg)
- Engine: one Rolls-Royce Adour Mk 151
- Thrust: 5,200 Ibs (2359 kg)
Have a browse of the gallery below if you want to see some more incredible images of The Red Arrows in action below:
All Images From MOD: Crown Copyright
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