The Red Arrows will operate in a seven-aircraft formation rather than nine for many displays over the next few years. This is because of their old engines, it has been claimed.
While the iconic aerobatic team will perform with a full “Diamond Nine” on special occasions, including the King’s birthday and as part of an international flypast in the US on 4 July to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Independence Day, only seven jets will take part in the first display of the season this weekend in Crete, as well as for much of the rest of the summer. The engine that powers the ageing Red Arrows Hawk T1 jet is no longer in production.
As a result, the RAF will be required to rotate the use of its remaining engines, which can be swapped in and out of aircraft. The reduced formation will remain the norm until the Ministry of Defence (MoD) buys a replacement Red Arrows fleet, Sky News reported.
However, this decision has been affected by a delay in the release of a major plan for new investment in the army, navy and air force, which should have been published last autumn. Since then, an aerospace company that had been vying for the Red Arrows contract crashed into administration.
The current Hawk aircraft are set to be retired in 2030, after the previous Conservative government extended their out-of-service date in 2021.
The Express contacted the MoD and an RAF spokesperson said: “The Red Arrows are the pride of the nation, known globally for their world-class precision, speed, and teamwork.
“The Red Arrows will fly in a nine aircraft formation for HM The King’s Birthday Flypast and the 4th of July 250 Commemorations in the USA this year. For other displays, they will operate with a seven aircraft, continuing to deliver high quality engaging displays at airshows and events across the UK, mainland Europe and further afield.
“This will support the sustainable management of the Hawk T1 fleet and prepare the team for a transition to a future aircraft type.”
This comes after the Red Arrows announced it would not be performing at this year’s Blackpool Air Show. Will Myles, Head of VisitBlackpool, said: “We fully respect the important role they play in representing the UK at home and around the world, and we look forward to welcoming them back in future years.”