The Red Arrows, officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, is the aerobatics display team of the Royal Air Force based at RAF Scampton. The Red Arrows were established on March 1, 1965, as an all-RAF team, replacing some unofficial teams sponsored by Royal Air Force commands.

In 1968, the team adopted the nine ship formation. This would allow the development of the nine ship diamond formations, which would become the team’s trademark. In late 1979, Red Arrows transitioned to the BAE Systems Hawk T1 trainer, which is still in use today. The BAE Hawk has served as the RAF’s primary jet trainer since 1974. The Red Arrows have performed over 4,800 displays in 57 countries worldwide.

The Red Arrows have a prominent place in British popular culture, with their aerobatic displays being a fixture of many British summer events. Some of the squadron’s most popular and dynamic maneuvers include Big Battle, Flanker Bend, Phoenix Bend, Typhoon Roll, Tornado, Diamond Bend, and Concorde. The team plays a key role in the recruitment of the Royal Armed Forces. One of the world’s premier aerobatic display teams, the Red Arrows are a national symbol that represents the United Kingdom both at home and abroad.

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