The Reds Are Home After 17,000 Mile Tour
The RAF's Red Arrows have returned to their base, after nine weeks away projecting air power and helping to improve diplomatic and business ties with the Far East.
The Reds were flying the flag for the RAF and the UK in 17 countries, but have now returned home to their families at RAF Scampton in time for Christmas.
The Air Officer Commanding 22 Group said it was an amazing overseas tour:
"Prosperity's been a big part of what we've been trying to achieve, but at the same time this is about projecting air power. This is about the Royal Air Force leaning into places where we've got strong partners, friends, and allies that we so rarely get the opportunity to meet".
They flew 17,000 miles, completed 42 take-off and landings, and did 20 displays in 17 countries, including India, Singapore, Vietnam, and China.
But the overseas tour was about more than just flying displays.
"We've been talking to industrialists in faraway places... we've been able to join companies up with products, and really the British marks that we've been close to - the Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC - key British companies that a part of our psyche, have done some amazing deals in the background".
In total, it's thought a billion people saw their displays in person or on television.
But back down on the ground in Britain, they've had a chance to reflect on their success while catching up with loved ones.
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