The Red Arrows are “here to stay” Defence Secretary Sir Michael Fallon has confirmed today in a statement that also confirmed they will be getting new aircraft to replace the ageing BAe Hawks.
The Reds, who are currently on a tour of China, are one of the most recognisable display teams in the world with their trademark red jets and 9-ship formation. They are often called upon to fly the flag for Britain around the world as well as thrilling thousands each year with their inch-perfect displays.
There has been mounting speculation over recent years that the team, which is an active Royal Air Force (RAF) Squadron could be shelved in defence budget cuts, according to some newspapers even the Queen expressed concern, but today’s announcement ends those rumours.
The news comes as The Reds home RAF Scampton celebrates its 100th Anniversary of being in Lincolnshire.
The Red Arrows were formed in 1965 following the merging of multiple other unofficial display teams, their name come from two of the former teams, the Red Pelicans and Black Arrows.