The Red Arrows, officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, are the United Kingdom’s premier military aerobatic display team. Based at RAF Scampton, they were formed on March 1, 1965, as an all‑RAF team that replaced several earlier unofficial display teams.

In 1968, the Red Arrows adopted their famous nine‑ship formation, which allowed them to develop the nine‑ship diamond pattern that became their signature look. In 1979, the team transitioned to the BAE Systems Hawk T1, a fast and reliable jet trainer that remains in service with the team today. The Hawk has been the RAF’s primary jet trainer since 1974. Over the years, the Red Arrows have performed more than 4,800 displays in 57 countries around the world.

The Red Arrows hold a special place in British culture, and their displays are a highlight of many summer events across the United Kingdom. Some of their most popular maneuvers include Big Battle, Flanker Bend, Phoenix Bend, Typhoon Roll, Tornado, Diamond Bend, and Concorde. The team also plays an important role in inspiring new recruits to join the Royal Armed Forces. As one of the world’s top aerobatic teams, the Red Arrows represent the United Kingdom with pride both at home and abroad.

In 2021, the Royal Air Force Red Arrows made a rare visit to Ellington Field in Houston, and I made the trip to photograph them. Seeing the team up close was an unforgettable experience — the precision, the color, and the energy of their display were every bit as impressive as their reputation suggests. Capturing their nine‑ship formations and dynamic maneuvers from the flight line added a personal connection to this gallery and made the visit one of the highlights of my aviation photography work.

2019 Royal Air Force Red Arrows

Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team-Wing Commander Andrew Keith

Red #1 - Team Leader-Squadron Leader Martin Pert

Red #2 - Flight Lieutenant Damo Green

Red #3 - Flight Lieutenant David Simmonds

Red #4 - Flight Lieutenant Gregor Ogston

Red #5 - Squadron Leader Steve Morris

Red #6 - Flight Lieutenant Toby Keeley

Red #7 - Flight Lieutenant Jon Bond

Red #8 - Flight Lieutenant Chris Lyndon-Smith

Red #9 and Executive Officer -Flight Lieutenant Dan Lowes

Red #10 and Supervisor - Squadron Leader Adam Collins