112-589: The Red Arrows , officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team , is the aerobatics display team of the Royal Air Force (RAF) based at RAF Waddington . The team was formed in late 1964 as an all-Royal Air Force team, replacing a number of unofficial teams that had been sponsored by RAF commands. The Red Arrows have a prominent place in British popular culture , with their aerobatic displays
224-548: A 16-ship diamond formation, which was made up of eight Phantoms from each squadron. No. 56 (F) Squadron ended their operations at RAF Wattisham at the end of July 1992. No. 74 (F) Squadron would continue to operate there until October 1992 when they stood down and reformed at RAF Valley as a training squadron. RAF Wattisham itself was handed over to the Army Air Corps becoming Wattisham Airfield in March 1993. On 1 August 1992,
336-450: A bomb-burst manoeuvre – XM179 , piloted by Flt. Lt. Michael Cooke, crashed, while XM181 landed safely. Cooke ejected and was left with severe spinal injuries, being confined to a wheelchair. The Firebirds display team was disbanded in 1964, becoming the last RAF aerobatic team to fly fighter jets. In October 1965, No. 56 (F) Squadron deployed to RAF Luqa , Malta , to participate in an Armament Practice Camp (APC). The following October,
448-544: A complete aerobatic sequence for entertainment or competition. Aerobatic flying requires a broader set of piloting skills and exposes the aircraft to greater structural stress than for normal flight. In some countries, the pilot must wear a parachute when performing aerobatics. Aerobatic training enhances a pilot's ability to recover from unusual flight conditions, and thus is an element of many flight safety training programs for pilots. While many pilots fly aerobatics for recreation, some choose to fly in aerobatic competitions ,
560-719: A cost of 40 pilots killed, 20 wounded and 31 taken prisoner. A good impression of the demobilisation of the squadron is given in the final pages of Wind in the Wires by Duncan Grinnell-Milne , the squadron's last CO. The squadron tune during the later stages of the war was The Darktown Strutters' Ball . On 22 November 1918, No. 56 Squadron moved to Béthencourt , France. It stayed here until it moved back to Britain on 15 February 1919, arriving at RAF Narborough along with No. 60 Squadron and No. 64 Squadron . Only days after being disbanded, No. 80 Squadron , based at RAF Aboukir , in Egypt ,
672-678: A cost-cutting measure, the RAF would no longer have a Tornado F.3 display. With the introduction of the Eurofighter Typhoon into RAF service it was decided that No. 56 (R) Squadron would be amalgamated with No. 43 (F) Squadron as part of the Tornado F.3 force draw down, with the Fighting Cocks taking over the OCU role. No. 56 (R) Squadron disbanded on 18 April 2008 at RAF Leuchars, with the occasion marked by
784-696: A diamond nine formation flypast over Eastern Scotland. The No. 56 (R) Squadron nameplate and standard was transferred to the Air Warfare Centre Air Command and Control Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Operational Evaluation Unit (AIR C2ISR OEU) at RAF Waddington on 22 April 2008. Upon their move to Waddington, the Firebirds initially tested and evaluated the: Boeing E-3D Sentry AEW.1 ; Raytheon Sentinel R.1 ; Hawker Siddeley Nimrod R.1 , MR.2 and BAE Systems Nimrod MRA.4 . On 1 February 2018, all (Reserve) nameplates were rescinded by
896-1274: A display team returning to RAF Fairford for the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT). For the entirety of the 2014 display season, the aircraft carried special 50th Anniversary markings on their tails instead of just the red, white and blue stripes. After the 2016 display season, the Red Arrows embarked on an Asia-Pacific and Middle East Tour. They performed flypasts or displays in Karachi in Pakistan ; Hindon and Hyderabad in India ; Dhaka in Bangladesh ; Singapore ; Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia ; Danang in Vietnam ; Beijing , Shanghai , Wuhan , Guangzhou , Hong Kong and Zhuhai in China ; Muscat in Oman ; Manama in Bahrain ; Abu Dhabi and Kuwait . The programme
1008-510: A fast jet such as the Tornado , Harrier , or Typhoon , have accumulated at least 1,500 flying hours, and have been assessed as above average in their operational role to be eligible. Even then, more than ten pilots apply for each place on the team. Pilots stay with the Red Arrows for a three-year tour of duty . Three pilots are changed every year, such that normally three first-year pilots, three second-year pilots, and three in their final year are on
1120-521: A fierce reputation for the unit. In the Second World War, they fought in the Battle of Britain , and operated as a successful fighter-bomber unit for most of the war. In the 1960s, the squadron had their own aerobatic display team, 'The Firebirds', which consisted of nine English Electric Lightning F.1As, which participated at many airshows. From March 1976 to July 1992, No. 56 (Fighter) Squadron operated
1232-464: A fixture of British summer events. The badge of the Red Arrows shows the aircraft in their trademark diamond nine formation, with the motto Éclat , a French word meaning "brilliance" or "excellence". The four published roles of the Red Arrows are: Initially, they were equipped with seven Folland Gnat trainers inherited from the RAF Yellowjacks display team. This aircraft was chosen because it
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#17328444955611344-473: A judged sport. In the early days of flying, some pilots used their aircraft as part of a flying circus to entertain. Maneuvers were flown for artistic reasons or to draw gasps from onlookers. In due course some of these maneuvers were found to allow aircraft to gain tactical advantage during aerial combat or dogfights between fighter aircraft. Aerobatic aircraft fall into two categories—specialist aerobatic, and aerobatic capable. Specialist designs such as
1456-545: A world record for the greatest number of aircraft looped in formation. The Black Arrows were the premier team until 1961, when the Blue Diamonds ( No. 92 Squadron ) continued their role, flying 16 blue Hunters. In 1960, the Tigers ( No. 74 Squadron ) were re-equipped with the supersonic English Electric Lightning and performed wing-overs and rolls with nine aircraft in tight formation. They sometimes gave co-ordinated displays with
1568-553: Is due to the ability to limit blood pooling for positive g maneuvers, but it is generally accepted that +9 g for more than a few seconds will lead to loss of consciousness (also known as GLOC ). Aerobatics are most likely to be seen at public airshows in the form of stunt flying. Aerobatic competitions usually do not attract large crowds of spectators since the manoeuvers are flown at safe altitudes to avoid accidents. No. 56 Squadron RAF Number 56 Squadron , also known as No. 56 Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES), nicknamed
1680-407: Is no land near enough for a Hawk to land and refuel to reach New Zealand on the most fuel that it can carry. The smoke trails left by the team are made by releasing diesel into the exhaust ; this vaporises in the hot exhaust flow, then re-condenses into very fine droplets that give the appearance of a white smoke trail. Dyes can be added to produce the red and blue colour. The diesel is stored in
1792-599: Is normally occupied by the Junior Engineering Officer. Similarly, the position of Circus Leader (Red 9) is occupied by a technician of sergeant rank; the other slots being filled by technicians holding corporal or senior aircraftman rank, with a photographer in the "Circus 10" position and, typically, the Senior Engineering Officer as "Circus 11", when the Officer Commanding flies. Each member of
1904-531: The 1973 oil crisis limited their appearances. At a charity auction in 2008, a British woman paid £1.5 million to fly with them. By the end of the 2009 season, the Red Arrows had performed a total of 4,269 displays in 53 countries. The 4,000th display was at RAF Leuchars during the Battle of Britain Airshow in September 2006. Following the accidents during the 2011 season, the Red Arrows retained Red 8 and moved
2016-497: The 1974 Cypriot coup d'état and the subsequent Turkish invasion of the island . The Firebirds returned to RAF Wattisham on 21 January 1975. While based at RAF Akrotiri, No. 56 (F) Squadron also operated a number of Canberras – these included a mixture of T.4s and B.2s. On 22 March 1976, No. 56 (Designate) Squadron formed at RAF Coningsby with the McDonnell Douglas Phantom FGR.2 . It wasn't until 29 June that
2128-588: The Battle of Barking Creek . Two pilots of the squadron were shot down and one, P/O Montague Hulton-Harrop, was killed, becoming the RAF's first casualty in the defence of the UK . The squadron entered the Second World War equipped with the Hawker Hurricane Mk.I and first saw action during the Battle of France , although they remained based in England and sent flights to France for short periods. The Firebirds ended
2240-690: The Battle of Cambrai . In December 1917, McCudden scored 14 victories – including 4 on 23 December, a first for the RFC. In January 1918, the squadron moved to Baizieux . McCudden was sent back to England on 5 March, where he was promoted to Major and received the Victoria Cross, he died on 9 July in an accident while on his way to take command of No. 60 Squadron . On 21 March, the Germans began their Spring Offensive , this forced No. 56 Squadron to pull back to Valheureux, where from they conducted air-to-air patrols for
2352-565: The Famous Five books) and Reds 6 to 9 are known as 'Hanna' (named after Red Arrows' founding member Squadron Leader Ray Hanna). Enid continue to perform close-formation aerobatics, while Hanna perform more dynamic manoeuvres. Red 6 (Syncro Leader) and Red 7 (Synchro 2) make up the Synchro Pair and they perform a series of opposition passes during this second half. At the end of each season, one of that year's new pilots will be chosen to be Red 7 for
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#17328444955612464-582: The Farnborough Airshow in September 1957. Aerobatics are taught to military fighter pilots as a means of developing flying skills and for tactical use in combat. Many aerobatic manoeuvres were indeed developed in military conflicts, e.g. the Immelmann turn or Split S . Aerobatics and formation flying is not limited solely to fixed-wing aircraft; the British Army , Royal Navy , Spanish Air Force and
2576-721: The Folland Gnat , the Red Arrows took delivery of the BAE Hawk in 1979. Since being introduced into service with the Red Arrows, the Hawk has performed with the Red Arrows in 50 countries. In July 2004, speculation surfaced in the British media that the Red Arrows would be disbanded, after a defence spending review, due to running costs between £5 million and £6 million. The Arrows were not disbanded and their expense has been justified through their public relations benefit of helping to develop business in
2688-644: The Gloster Gladiator Mk.I, in July 1937. The Gladiators were flown up until May 1938 when the squadron acquired Hawker Hurricane Mk.Is. The squadron would operate the Hurricane in the opening stages of WW2. No. 56 Squadron's introduction to the Second World War came on 6 September 1939. The Firebirds , then based at RAF North Weald , were the victims of a friendly fire incident by No. 74 Squadron known as
2800-538: The Indian Air Force , among others, have helicopter display teams. All aerobatic manoeuvres demand training and practice to avoid accidents . Accidents due to aerobatic manoeuvres are very rare in competition aerobatics; most of them happen when performing formation flying or stunt flying at very low levels at airshows or air racing . Low-level aerobatics are extremely demanding and airshow pilots must demonstrate their ability before being allowed to gradually reduce
2912-523: The MBB Bo 105 , are capable of limited aerobatic manoeuvres . An example of a fully aerobatic helicopter, capable of performing loops and rolls, is the Westland Lynx . Most aerobatic manoeuvres involve rotation of the aircraft about its longitudinal (roll) axis or lateral (pitch) axis. Other maneuvers, such as a spin , displace the aircraft about its vertical (yaw) axis. Manoeuvres are often combined to form
3024-658: The McDonnell Douglas Phantom FGR.2 , flying from RAF Wattisham , Suffolk , becoming the penultimate unit to fly the type. Until 18 April 2008, the squadron was the Operational Conversion Unit for the Panavia Tornado F.3 at RAF Leuchars , Fife . Since 22 April 2008, the squadron has been based at RAF Waddington , Lincolnshire , and serves as the Air Command and Control Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Operational Evaluation Unit (AIR C2ISR OEU) for
3136-912: The Pitts Special , the Extra 200 and 300 , and the Sukhoi Su-26 M and Sukhoi Su-29 aim for ultimate aerobatic performance. This comes at the expense of general purpose use such as touring, or ease of non aerobatic handling such as landing. At a more basic level, aerobatic capable aircraft, such as the Cessna 152 Aerobat or the R2160 Acrobin , can be dual purpose—equipped to carrying passengers and luggage, as well as being capable of basic aerobatic figures. Flight formation aerobatics are flown by teams of up to sixteen aircraft, although most teams fly between four and ten aircraft. Some are state funded to reflect pride in
3248-461: The Red Baron . The squadron did shoot down and kill Richthofen's nearest 1917 rival Leutnant Werner Voss in an epic dogfight, on 23 September 1917 by Lieutenant Arthur Rhys-Davids . Albert Ball scored No. 56 Squadron's first kill, his 32nd, on 23 April, when he shot down an Albatros D.III . The squadron suffered its first loss on 30 April when Lieutenant Maurice Alfred Kay was shot down. Ball himself
3360-634: The Surya Kiran . With the planned closure of RAF Scampton, the future home of the Red Arrows became uncertain. On 20 May 2008, months of speculation were ended when it was revealed that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) were moving the Red Arrows to nearby RAF Waddington . However, in December 2011, those plans were put under review. The MoD confirmed in June 2012 that the Red Arrows would remain at RAF Scampton until at least
3472-655: The United States Navy due to the re-basing of Phantoms to the Falklands. These contrasted with No. 56 (F) Squadron's Phantom FGR.2s which used Rolls-Royce Spey engines, UK MOD Radar systems and other RAF modifications. No. 74 (F) Squadron eventually exchanged their F-4J(UK)s for the Phantom FGR.2 in January 1991, due to their availability from other squadrons converting to the Panavia Tornado F.3 . Plans had originally been for
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3584-412: The armed forces while others are commercially sponsored. Coloured smoke trails may be emitted to emphasise the patterns flown and/or the colours of a national flag. Aerobatic maneuvers flown in a jet-powered aircraft are limited in scope as they cannot take advantage of the gyroscopic forces that a propeller driven aircraft can exploit. Jet-powered aircraft also tend to fly much faster, which increases
3696-433: The 'stem' of the formation - the two positions behind the team leader. During an aerobatics display, Red Arrows pilots experience forces up to five times that of gravity (1g) , and when performing the aerobatic manoeuvre 'Vixen Break', forces up to 7g can be reached, close to the 8g structural limit of the aircraft. As well as the nine pilots, 'Red 10', who is the team supervisor, is a fully qualified Hawk pilot who flies
3808-470: The Blue Diamonds. Yet another aerobatics team was formed in 1960 by No. 56 Squadron , the Firebirds, with nine red and silver Lightnings. In 1964, the Red Pelicans , flying six BAC Jet Provost T Mk 4s, assumed the role of the RAF's leading display team. In that same year, a team of five yellow Gnat trainers from No 4 Flying Training School displayed at the Farnborough Airshow . This team became known as
3920-565: The CFS headquarters in 1983, the Red Arrows moved there. As an economy measure, Scampton closed in 1995, so the Red Arrows moved 20 miles (32 km) to RAF Cranwell ; however, as they still used the air space above Scampton, the emergency facilities and runways had to be maintained. On 21 December 2000, the Red Arrows returned to RAF Scampton. On 13 October 2022, the Red Arrows moved to their new base at RAF Waddington . The first team, led by Flight Lieutenant Lee Jones, had seven display pilots and flew
4032-453: The Circus works with the same pilot for the duration of the season and is responsible for servicing and refuelling their aircraft and preparing their flying kit prior to each display. Circus members fly in the back seats of the jets during transit flight to ensure ground support at any location where the team lands. Two specialist engineering "Dye" Teams also support the Red Arrows when moving around
4144-737: The F.1 and F.2s were withdrawn from service due to their poor performance. Continuing to operate the Meteor F.8 after the Swift, No. 56 (F) Squadron finally converted to a new aircraft in May 1955 when they received the Hawker Hunter F.5. On 10 July 1958, the squadron moved to RAF Wattisham, where they would spend some 35 years defending UK airspace, intercepting Tupolev Tu-95 "Bear" aircraft. No. 56 (F) Squadron upgraded to Hunter F.6s in November 1958. In December 1960,
4256-464: The Firebirds became the first squadron in the RAF to operate an aircraft in air superiority grey when Phantom FGR.2 XV474 was delivered to RAF Wattisham, marking a change from the old green and grey schemes. On 21 June 1979, Phantom FGR.2 XV424 from No. 56 (F) Squadron re-enacted the transatlantic flight of Alcock and Brown to celebrate its 60th anniversary. The flight was undertaken by pilot, Sqd. Ldr. A. J. N. Alcock (nephew of John Alcock who made
4368-521: The Firebirds deployed once more to Luqa, this time to participate in an air defence exercise alongside Avro Vulcans , English Electric Canberra PR.9s and No. 29 (F) Squadron Gloster Javelin FAW.9s . No. 56 (F) Squadron left RAF Wattisham on 11 May 1967, deploying to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus . Between 11 and 20 July 1968, the Firebirds deployed from Akrotiri to Luqa for Exercise Island Litex. In August 1971,
4480-547: The Firebirds for their ability to always reappear intact regardless of the odds, is one of the oldest and most successful squadrons of the Royal Air Force , with battle honours from many of the significant air campaigns of both the First and Second World Wars . During the First World War, the squadron had many aces amongst its ranks such as James McCudden , Albert Ball , Reginald Hoidge and Arthur Rhys-Davids , developing
4592-577: The Firebirds using bombs from November 1943 and rockets from February 1944. No. 56 Squadron was to score one confirmed victory while flying Typhoons. After moving around multiple bases in the UK, the squadron moved up to RAF Scorton , Yorkshire on 7 April 1944, where they converted to the Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX. From here the squadron flew escort and reconnaissance missions. On 28 April 1944, No. 56 Squadron moved to RAF Newchurch , Kent where
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4704-574: The Folland Gnat T1 jet trainer. The first display in the UK was on 6 May 1965, at Little Rissington for a press day. At the subsequent National Air Day display, three days later, at Clermont Ferrand in France, one French journalist described the team as " Les Fleches Rouges ", confirming the name "The Red Arrows". By the end of their first season, the Red Arrows had displayed 65 times in Britain, France, Italy,
4816-518: The Indian province of Punjab raised money to have their name attached to a fighter, thus becoming an Indian 'gift' squadron. The Firebirds then relocated for a brief stay at RAF Martlesham Heath , Suffolk on 23 July before settling at RAF Duxford on 26 July. In September 1941, No. 56 Squadron became the first unit to receive the Hawker Typhoon Mk.Ia which, although troublesome to begin with,
4928-618: The Lightning F.6s were disbanded and the Squadron Standard was formally handed over to RAF Coningsby. No. 56 (Fighter) Squadron returned to RAF Wattisham on 9 July, where they would remain for the next 16 years. Upon their return, The Firebirds found themselves sharing RAF Wattisham with No. 23 (F) Squadron . The squadron deployed to RAF Luqa in Malta for the last time between 13 October and November 1977 with ten Phantom FGR.2s. In October 1978,
5040-571: The Meteor F.4 in August 1948. The Firebirds settled at RAF Waterbeach on 10 May 1950, where they would operate from for the next nine years. In December 1950, No. 56 (F) Squadron upgraded to the improved Meteor F.8. In February 1954, No. 56 (F) Squadron became the first, and only, squadron to receive the Supermarine Swift F.1, and the subsequent Swift F.2s they received in August. The squadron evaluated both Swift variants up until March 1955 when
5152-594: The MoD asked the civil sector to help develop an environmentally friendly smoke system for the team's aircraft. This is part of its drive to make the RAF net-zero by 2040. Data from: Ejection History – Red Arrows Aerobatics Aerobatics is the practice of flying maneuvers involving aircraft attitudes that are not used in conventional passenger-carrying flights. The term is a portmanteau of "aeroplane" and "acrobatics". Aerobatics are performed in aeroplanes and gliders for training, recreation, entertainment, and sport. Additionally, some helicopters , such as
5264-405: The Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium and were awarded the Britannia Trophy by the Royal Aero Club for their contribution to aviation. In 1968, the then team leader (Sqn Ldr Ray Hanna ) expanded the team from seven to nine jets, as he wanted to expand the team's capabilities and the permutations of formation patterns. During this season, the 'Diamond Nine' pattern was formed and it has remained
5376-400: The No. 56 (Fighter) Squadron nameplate was transferred to No. 65 Squadron at RAF Coningsby becoming No. 56 (Reserve) Squadron. It became the RAF's Operational Conversion Unit (No. 229 OCU) conducting training of Ab initio crew and aircrew converting from other aircraft types to the Tornado F.3. Following the announcement that the Eurofighter Typhoon would be stationed at Coningsby, it
5488-547: The Olympic games, and are governed by the FAI Aerobatics Commission (CIVA) Competitions start at Primary, or Graduate level (in UK "Beginners") and proceed in complexity through Sportsman (in UK "Standard"), Intermediate and Advanced, with Unlimited being the top competition level. Experienced aerobatic pilots have been measured to pull ±5 g for short periods while unlimited pilots can perform more extreme maneuvers and experience higher g levels -possibly up to +8/−6 g. The limits for positive g are higher than for negative g and this
5600-543: The RAF thus changing No. 56 (Reserve) Squadron to just No. 56 Squadron. On 10 June 2018, the Firebirds paraded through the village of North Weald , where the squadron was based between 1927 and 1941, after being awarded the 'Freedom of the District' by the local council. As of 2020, the squadron provides operational test and evaluation, and specialist advice, for RAF airborne ground surveillance, airborne electronic sensors, airborne command and control, aerospace battle management and intelligence exploitation. In March 2021,
5712-416: The RAF to retain both Phantom squadrons but under the Options for Change defence review in 1990 the decision was made to withdraw both units. Both No. 56 (F) Squadron and No. 74 (F) Squadron participated in their last APC at RAF Akrotiri in early June 1992. On 13 June 1992, the Firebirds and the Tigers participated in Queen Elizabeth II 's official birthday flypast , flying over Buckingham Palace with
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#17328444955615824-421: The RAF". Flypasts are still intended to be performed with nine aircraft, with experienced Red Arrows pilots flying the remaining 2 aircraft. On 2 June 2022 Trooping the Colour , as part of Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II , closed with the Queen and Royal Family observing a flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace . In 1977, a charge of £200 was introduced by the MoD for a Red Arrows display. By 2000,
5936-443: The RAF. No. 56 Squadron was formed on 8 June 1916 at Gosport , from members of No. 28 Squadron , as part of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC). On 14 July, the squadron relocated to London Colney . No. 56 Squadron received its first aircraft, a Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2c on 7 August, which was followed by numerous other types. Captain Albert Ball joined No. 56 Squadron as a Flight Commander in February 1917. On 13 March 1917,
6048-476: The Red Arrow's famous red, white and blue smoke trails. Other display support areas are led by a Chief of Staff, PR Manager and Operations Officer. The diverse constitution of the Blues team includes aircraft technicians, survival equipment specialists, drivers, logisticians, photographers and operations specialists. Each season up to eleven members of the Blues are selected to be members of the 'Circus'. The position of "Circus 1" (the engineer who accompanies Red 1)
6160-408: The Team will perform the Rolling Display, substituting wing-overs and rolls for the loops. If the cloud base is less than 2,500-foot (760 m) the Team will fly the Flat Display, which consists of a series of fly-pasts and steep turns. The greatest number of displays flown in any year was in 1995, when the Red Arrows performed 136 times. The smallest number of displays in one year was in 1975, after
6272-430: The UK, or overseas, deploying with a 'smoke rig' to strategic locations in order to replenish the smoke pod. The team use the same two-seat training aircraft used for advanced pilot training, at first the Folland Gnat which was replaced in 1979 by the BAE Systems Hawk T1 . The Hawks are modified with an uprated engine and a modification to enable smoke to be generated; diesel is mixed with a coloured dye and ejected into
6384-404: The Vampire, and in 1950, No. 72 Squadron was flying a team of seven. No. 54 Squadron became the first RAF jet formation team to use smoke trails. Vampires were replaced by Gloster Meteors , No. 66 Squadron developing a formation team of six aircraft. Hawker Hunter aircraft were first used for aerobatics teams in 1955, when No. 54 Squadron flew a formation of four. The official RAF team
6496-424: The Yellowjacks after Flight Lieutenant Lee Jones's call sign, "Yellowjack". In 1964, all the RAF display teams were amalgamated, as it was feared pilots were spending too much time practising formation aerobatics rather than operational training. The new team name took the word "red" from the fact that the Red Pelicans' planes had been painted red (for safety reasons, as it was a far clearer and more visible colour in
6608-434: The aircraft. Due to safety concerns, the smoke is not a result of combustion but is produced by the vaporization of fog oil into a fine aerosol , achieved either by injecting the oil into the hot engine exhaust or by the use of a dedicated device that can be fitted in any position on the aircraft. The first military aerobatic team to use smoke at will during displays was Fleet Air Arm 702 Squadron " The Black Cats " at
6720-417: The audience can be as low as 300 feet (91 m), the 'synchro pair' can go as low as 100-foot (30 m) straight and level, or 150-foot (46 m) when in inverted flight. To carry out a full looping display the cloud base must be above 5,500 feet (1,700 m) to avoid the team entering the cloud while looping. If the cloud base is less than 5,500-foot (1,700 m) but more than 2,500-foot (760 m)
6832-404: The campaign by covering the Dunkirk evacuation . As part of No. 11 Group , No. 56 Squadron was based at RAF North Weald at the beginning of the Battle of Britain . From there the squadron first engaged German aircraft on 31 July 1940. It was heavily involved in the fighting in the south of England during August, although the squadron moved to RAF Boscombe Down on the 1 September. It was one of
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#17328444955616944-517: The charge had risen to £2,000 (including VAT and insurance). In 2011 the team manager quoted the charge as £9,000. On a transit flight (getting to or from a display location) the team may fly at the relatively low altitude of 1,000 feet (300 m). This avoids the complication of moving through the cloud base in formation, and also avoids much controlled air space. Jets are more efficient at higher altitude, so longer flights are made at 35,000 to 42,000 feet (11,000 to 13,000 m). On transit flights,
7056-554: The culture as "toxic". While the inquiry was ongoing some pilots left, leaving a smaller display team. An inquiry delivered in November 2022 concluded that at least two pilots from the team had enough of a service case against them to warrant their discharge from the service. In November 2022 it was announced that the commanding officer had been suspended for investigations. The whole team were required to attend courses on "unacceptable behaviour" and "active bystander" training after one former female member claimed that newly arrived females on
7168-437: The defence industry and promoting recruitment for the RAF. According to the BBC , disbanding the Red Arrows will be highly unlikely, as they are a considerable attraction throughout the world. This was reiterated by Prime Minister David Cameron on 20 February 2013, when he guaranteed the estimated £9m per annum costs while visiting India to discuss a possible sale of Hawk aircraft to be used by India's military aerobatics team,
7280-491: The end of 1939 and the start of the Second World War . On 14 November 1928, the No. 56 Squadron was allowed to use a phoenix for its crest along with the motto Quid si coelum ruat . The squadron converted to the Bristol Bulldog Mk.IIa in October 1932, these were kept until May 1936 when the squadron received Gloster Gauntlet Mk.IIs. No. 56 Squadron's crest and motto were officially approved by King Edward VIII in July 1936. No. 56 Squadron converted to their last biplane,
7392-427: The end of the decade. Scampton's runway was resurfaced as a result. In July 2018 the RAF announced that RAF Scampton, the wartime base of No. 617 Squadron also known as The Dambusters , would close by 2022. In March 2019, the MoD indicated that RAF Waddington, alongside RAF Leeming and RAF Wittering , was being considered as their future home. It was confirmed in May 2020 that Waddington had been selected. The move
7504-480: The few fighter squadrons to remain based in the south of England continuously through the battle, scoring 59 kills by the end. The squadron relocated away from RAF Boscombe Down on 29 November to RAF Middle Wallop where they stayed until 17 December when the Firebirds returned to RAF North Weald in Essex . It was while based here that No. 56 Squadron upgraded to the Hurricane Mk.IIb in February 1941. In April 1941, No. 56 Squadron gained its 'Punjab' nickname after
7616-407: The following season, with that year's Red 7 taking over as Red 6. The Reds have no reserve pilots, as spare pilots would not perform often enough to fly to the standard required, nor would they be able to learn the intricacies of each position in the formation. If one of the pilots is not able to fly, the team flies an eight-plane formation. However, if the Team Leader, 'Red 1', is unable to fly, then
7728-440: The formation can include spare planes. Sometimes a C-130 Hercules or an Atlas C.1 accompanies them, carrying spare parts. They often provide flypasts and brief displays to smaller events if they are already passing over or it is a small detour. As the fuel capacity of the Hawk sets a limit to nonstop flight distance, and the Hawk is incapable of air-to-air refuelling , very long flights between display sites may need landings on
7840-423: The fuselage and fin, as well as a special 'anniversary break' manoeuvre being included in the display. The Red Arrows were not the first RAF aerobatics team. An RAF pageant was held at Hendon in 1920 with teams from front-line biplane squadrons. In 1925, No. 32 Squadron RAF flew an air display six nights a week entitled "London Defended" at the British Empire Exhibition . Similar to the display they had done
7952-480: The ground. Explosions on the ground also produced the effect of bombs being dropped into the stadium by the aeroplanes. One of the pilots in the display was Flying Officer C. W. A. Scott , who later became famous for breaking three England–Australia solo flight records and winning the MacRobertson Air Race with co-pilot Tom Campbell Black in 1934. In 1947, the first jet team of three de Havilland Vampires came from RAF Odiham Fighter Wing. Various teams flew
8064-460: The height at which they may fly their show. In the EU, flying aerobatics requires special training and a rating. In Canada, no licence is required to perform aerobatics, but to carry passengers during aerobatics a pilot must have at least 10 hours dual flight instruction of aerobatic manoeuvres, or 20 hours of total aerobatic experience. Aerobatic flying competitions are a worldwide phenomenon, rather like
8176-745: The jet exhaust to produce either red, white or blue smoke. The first display by the Red Arrows was at RAF Little Rissington on 6 May 1965. The display was to introduce the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team to the media. However, the first public display was on 9 May 1965 in France, at the French National Air Day in Clermont-Ferrand . The first public display in the UK was on 15 May 1965 at the Biggin Hill International Air Fair . The first display with nine aircraft
8288-662: The latter months of the war, the Firebirds were deployed to several airfields in Europe: including Volkel , in the Netherlands; Copenhagen ; and numerous bases in Germany. During the Second World War, the No. 56 Squadron claimed a total of 149 aircraft shot down. On 31 March 1946, the No. 56 (Punjab) Squadron nameplate was transferred over to No. 16 Squadron . No. 56 (Fighter) Squadron then reformed
8400-665: The next day, 1 April, at RAF Bentwaters when No. 124 Squadron was renumbered. Upon their reformation, the Firebirds converted to their first jet fighter, the Gloster Meteor F.3. No. 56 (F) Squadron left RAF Bentwaters on 16 September, moving to RAF Boxted . They remained here before relocating on 10 November to RAF Acklington , eventually moving on to RAF Wattisham on 20 December. No. 56 (F) Squadron moved on to RAF Duxford on 17 April 1947 staying there until 31 August before returning once again on 30 November, where they would last until 2 February 1948. The squadron upgraded to
8512-490: The next four months. The squadron supported the buildup to and provided support during the Battle of Amiens (beginning 8 August), which would later be known as the start of the Hundred Days Offensive . On 1 August, No. 56 Squadron, in tandem with No. 3 Squadron , attacked a German aerodrome in which 6 hangars and 16 enemy aircraft were destroyed. By the end of the war, No. 56 Squadron had scored 427 victories, at
8624-521: The original Red 10 to the Red 5 position to enable them to continue displaying with nine aircraft. In March 2012, the MoD announced that the Red Arrows would fly aerobatic displays with seven aircraft during the 2012 display season as Flt Lt Kirsty Stewart had moved into a ground-based role with the team. It is believed this was due to the emotional stress she had been suffering over the loss of her two Red Arrows colleagues
8736-592: The original flight), and navigator, Flt. Lt. W. N. Browne, who brought the original 1919 mascot 'Twinkletoes' with them on their journey. No. 23 (F) Squadron departed RAF Wattisham on 21 March 1983 when their nameplate was passed to No. 29 (F) Squadron at RAF Stanley on the Falkland Islands , from where they provided air defence. The Firebirds were not alone for long however with No. 74 (F) Squadron reforming at RAF Wattisham on 19 October 1984. The Tigers were equipped with unique F-4J(UK) Phantoms , procured from
8848-404: The pod on the underside of the plane; it houses three tanks: one 50-imperial-gallon (230 L) tank of pure diesel and two 10-imperial-gallon (45 L) tanks of blue and red dyed diesel. The smoke system uses 10 imperial gallons (45 L) per minute; therefore each plane can trail smoke for a total of seven minutes: – five minutes of white smoke, a minute of blue and a minute of red. In 2021,
8960-466: The previous year, when the aircraft were painted black, it consisted of a night-time air display over the Wembley Exhibition flying RAF Sopwith Snipes which were painted red for the display and fitted with white lights on the wings, tail, and fuselage. The display involved firing blank ammunition into the stadium crowds and dropping pyrotechnics from the aeroplanes to simulate shrapnel from guns on
9072-473: The previous year. As a consequence of this, Red 8 also dropped out of the display team to enable an odd number of aircraft to perform and thus maintain formation symmetry. However, the team carried out official flypasts with nine aircraft by utilising Red 8 as well as ex-Red Arrow display pilot and then Red 10 Mike Ling. The Red Arrows returned to a full aerobatic formation of nine aircraft in 2013. In 2014, The Red Arrows celebrated 50 years of Aerobatic history as
9184-692: The rest of the squadron at RAF Biggin Hill . In September 1924, No. 56 Squadron was assigned a red and white checker pattern as a means of squadron identification, something which the squadron would actively use up until 2008. The same month saw the squadron convert to the Gloster Grebe Mk.II, flying them until they were exchanged for Armstrong Whitworth Siskin Mk.IIIas in September 1927. The squadron finally settled at RAF North Weald in October 1927, where it remained until
9296-512: The second raid was aborted and focused on Kent; the third was a daytime raid on 13 June in which there were 594 casualties, which went unanswered with the Germans losing no bombers. In response to this, No. 56 Squadron was recalled back to England and based at RFC Bekesbourne on 21 June. The squadron participated in the Battle of Passchendaele , marking numerous victories throughout it. Captain James McCudden , eventual highest scoring pilot of
9408-416: The size of the figures and the length of time the pilot has to withstand increased g-forces. Jet aerobatic teams often fly in formations, which further restricts the maneuvers that can be safely flown. Aerobatics done at low levels and for an audience is called "stunt flying". To enhance the show effect of aerobatic manoeuvres, smoke is sometimes generated; the smoke allows viewers to see the path travelled by
9520-696: The sky) and "arrows" after the Black Arrows. The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the formal name of the Red Arrows, began life at RAF Little Rissington in Gloucestershire, then the Central Flying School before moving to RAF Fairford . The Red Arrows moved to RAF Kemble, now Cotswold Airport , in 1966 after RAF Fairford became the place of choice for BAC to run test flights for the Concorde supersonic airliner. When RAF Scampton (near Lincoln ) became
9632-499: The squadron acquired Lightning F.6s after No. 74 (F) Squadron flew them over from RAF Tengah , Singapore before they disbanded. A detachment of four Lightnings deployed to Luqa between 11 and 20 December 1971 to carry out scrambles, night flying and practise in-flight refuelling with a Handley Page Victor K.1A of No. 57 Squadron . The Firebirds deployed two more ten day attachments to RAF Luqa in May 1973 and June 1974. No. 56 (F) Squadron flew extensive top cover over Cyprus during
9744-442: The squadron and he had confidence in the current command. Four of the victims who made formal complainants subsequently criticised the inquiry in a Sky News documentary, and stated that the RAF had falsely told a parliamentary committee that the sexism allegations did not meet a criminal threshold. Since 1966, the team has had nine display pilots each year, all volunteers. Pilots must have completed one or more operational tours on
9856-465: The squadron became the first unit in the entire RFC to be equipped with the then brand new Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5 fighter. On 31 March, No. 56 Squadron received orders to relocate to the RFC HQ at Saint-Omer , France . By 8 April, the entire Squadron had made the move from London Colney, with the pilots having their photograph in their S.E.5s taken before they left on the 7 April. From Saint-Omer,
9968-519: The squadron began to convert to the English Electric Lightning F.1A , with their last Hunters disbanding in January 1961. In 1963, No. 56 (F) Squadron formed a display team called " The Firebirds ", flying nine red and silver Lightnings. On 6 June 1963, the display team suffered an accident at RAF Wattisham during preparations for the 25th Paris Air Show . The incident occurred when a pair of Lightnings ( XM179 and XM181 ) collided during
10080-482: The squadron converted to the Hawker Tempest Mk.V in June. Squadron Leader Frederick Higginson left the squadron at this time, being posted to No. 83 Group . Due to his knowledge of the pilot escape routes in France; his total victory count, all with No. 56 Squadron, was 15. As a unit of No. 150 Wing , under the command of Wing Commander Roland Beamont , No. 56 Squadron became an air defence squadron. It
10192-627: The squadron helped turn into a usable fighter. Before leaving RAF Duxford, the squadron upgraded to the Typhoon Mk.Ib in March 1942, moving to RAF Snailwell on 30 March. From 24 August 1942 to 22 July 1943, the unit was based with No. 12 Group at RAF Matlaske in Norfolk . During this time, No. 56 Squadron's role changed from that of low-level defence against Focke-Wulf Fw 190 and Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter-bomber attacks into becoming fighter bombers themselves, attacking ground and sea targets. With
10304-456: The squadron relocated to Vert Galant on 20 April to support the Second Battle of Arras and flew their first mission on the 22 April. Its arrival at the front with the latest fighter, combined with the unusually high proportion of experienced pilots in its ranks, led to rumours among its German opponents that the squadron was an 'Anti-Richthofen Squadron', specifically dedicated to the removal of
10416-416: The squadron, joined on 13 August. Rhys-Davids made his final sortie on 27 October 1917, taking off for a routine patrol he chased after a group of Albatros fighters after which he was never seen again. The Luftstreitkräfte credited Karl Gallwitz with the kill, word only reached the RFC on 29 December that Rhys-Davids had been killed. On 18 November, No. 56 Squadron was relocated to Laviéville in support of
10528-405: The team does not display at all. Each pilot always flies the same position in the formation during a season. The pilots spend six months from October to April practising for the display season. Pilots wear green flying suits during training, and are only allowed to wear their red flying suits once they are awarded their Public Display Authority at the end of winter training. The new pilots joining
10640-505: The team spend their first season flying at the front of the formation near the team leader. As their experience and proficiency improve, they move to positions further back in the formation in their second and third seasons. Pilots who start on the left of the formation stay on that side for the duration of their three-year tour; the pilots on the right side stay on the right. The exception to this are Reds 6 and 7 (the Synchro Pair), who fly in
10752-530: The team were seen as "fresh meat", and would be inundated with unwanted WhatsApp messages. A further formal investigation into the command, leadership, and management of the squadron was conducted in 2023, and redacted versions of both reports were published on 1 November 2023. Chief of the Air Staff Sir Richard Knighton apologised and stated "I was appalled when I read the investigations' findings" and that few serving at that time were still in
10864-413: The team's trademark pattern ever since. Ray Hanna served as Red Leader for three consecutive years until 1968 and was recalled to supersede Squadron Leader Timothy Nelson for the 1969 display season, a record four seasons as Leader, which still stands. For his considerable achievements of airmanship with the team, Ray Hanna was awarded a bar to his existing Air Force Cross . After displaying 1,292 times in
10976-489: The team, she flew the Tornado GR4 at RAF Marham . The engineering and support team that supports the Red Arrows is known as "The Blues" and consists of more than 90 members drawn from a wide-variety of technical and support trades in the RAF. The vast majority of this team is commanded by the Senior Engineering Officer, who is responsible for all engineering and logistics delivery of the aircraft and display support; including
11088-436: The team. The team leader also spends three years with the team. The 'Boss', as he is known to the rest of the team, is always a pilot who has previously completed a three-year tour with the Red Arrows, often (although not always) including a season as the leader of the Synchro Pair. During the second half of each display, the Red Arrows split into two sections. Reds 1 to 5 are known as 'Enid' (named after Enid Blyton , author of
11200-417: The tenth aircraft when the Red Arrows are away from base. This means the team have a reserve aircraft at the display site. Red 10's duties include co-ordination of all practices and displays and acting as the team's ground safety officer. Red 10 often flies TV cameramen and photographers for air-to-air pictures of the Red Arrows and also provides the commentary for all of the team's displays. On 13 May 2009, it
11312-485: The way to refuel. For example, a flight from RAF Scampton to Quebec for an international air display team competition had to be done in seven hops: RAF Scampton, RAF Kinloss (Scotland), Keflavík (Iceland), Kangerlussuaq (west Greenland), Narsarsuaq (south tip of Greenland), Goose Bay ( Newfoundland ) and Bagotville ( Quebec ). For the same reason, Red Arrows displays in New Zealand are unlikely because there
11424-413: Was announced that the Red Arrows would include their first female display pilot. Flt Lt Kirsty Moore (née Stewart) joined for the 2010 season. Flt Lt Moore was not the first female to apply to become a Red Arrow, but was the first to be taken forward to the intense final selection process. She joined the RAF in 1998 and was a qualified flying instructor on the Hawk aircraft at RAF Valley . Prior to joining
11536-476: Was completed on 13 October 2022. The Red Arrows will continue to use airspace above RAF Scampton for their training. In December 2021, Chief of the Air Staff Mike Wigston ordered an RAF inquiry into the Red Arrows, which The Times later reported related to allegations of bullying, misogyny , sexual harassment and drunkenness. Up to 40 personnel on the squadron, many of whom were female, described
11648-456: Was decided that No. 56 (R) Squadron would relocate north to RAF Leuchars in Fife , home to No. 43 (F) Squadron and No. 111 (F) Squadron . The squadron moved north in March 2003, initially moving into the 'Ark Royal' hangar before moving into a new building on the northern side of the airfield. No. 56 (R) Squadron flew an aerobatic display from 1993 until December 2005 when it was announced, that as
11760-515: Was killed in action on 7 May, the same day as Lieutenant Roger Michael Chaworth-Musters. No. 56 Squadron was sent north to Estrée-Blanche on 31 May 1917, to provide support for the upcoming Battle of Messines . From May 1917, the Germans began bombing London using their new Gotha G.IV bombers – with the first raid occurring on 25 May inflicting 290 casualties in London and Folkestone (due to diversion);
11872-478: Was less expensive to operate than front-line fighters . In their first season, they flew at 65 shows across Europe . In 1966, the team was increased to nine members, enabling them to develop their Diamond Nine formation. In late 1979, they switched to the BAE Hawk trainer. The Red Arrows have performed over 4,800 displays in 57 countries worldwide. The team is currently and publicly celebrating their 60th Diamond Season in 2024, with an anniversary decal applied to
11984-509: Was on 8 July 1966 at RAF Little Rissington. The first display in Germany was at RAF Laarbruch on 6 August 1965. The Red Arrows performed in Germany a further 170 times before formation aerobatics were banned in Germany following the Ramstein airshow disaster in 1988. During displays, the aircraft do not fly directly over the crowd apart from entering the display area by flying over the crowd from behind; any manoeuvres in front of and parallel to
12096-456: Was provided by No. 111 Squadron in 1956, and for the first time, the aircraft had a special colour scheme, which was an all-black finish. After a demonstration in France, they were hailed as " Les Fleches Noires " and from then on known as the Black Arrows . This team became the first team to fly a five-Hunter formation. In 1958, the Black Arrows performed a loop and barrel roll of 22 Hunters,
12208-623: Was renumbered on 1 February 1920 to No. 56 Squadron. From here they flew Sopwith Snipes . The squadron was disbanded again on 23 September 1922; however, one flight was hastily reformed on 26 September and sent to Turkey for the Chanak Crisis . This flight was officially attached to No. 208 Squadron and remained in Turkey until August 1923. However it continued to use the 56 numberplate, even though No. 56 Squadron had reformed officially in November 1922 at RAF Hawkinge . This flight returned and rejoined
12320-525: Was tasked with defending Britain from V-1 flying bombs – of which between 70 and 77 + 1 ⁄ 2 were shot down by the squadron. No. 56 Squadron transferred to advance landing ground B.60 at Grimbergen in Belgium on 28 September 1944, becoming part of No. 122 Wing, Second Tactical Air Force . During subsequent operations No. 56 Squadron was to become the equal highest scoring Tempest unit, with No. 486 (NZ) Squadron , totalling 59 confirmed victories. In
12432-519: Was the Red Arrows' biggest-ever tour, flying to more than 25 cities, 21 displays and 30 flypasts. On 2 June 2022 Trooping the Colour , as part of Platinum Jubilee of Elizabeth II , closed with the Queen and Royal Family observing a flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace . For the 2022 display season, The Red Arrows are flying a seven aircraft display, due to "2 formation pilots moving to other roles within
12544-545: Was the first time the team had displayed in China, and the first time a British military aircraft had deployed to Vietnam. The summer 2019 display season took the team on a tour of North America, known as Western Hawk 19. After performing at RIAT, the team departed across the Atlantic at the end of July. As well as performing at US and Canadian air shows, they promoted the UK through school visits and meetings with business leaders. This
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