Video marks 50 years of Arrows

The Hawk T1 was built for the team by BAE Systems and the company still works alongside them to provide engineering support and spares to the team.

To mark the Reds’ 50th display season, the company has commissioned a video which charts the development of the team over the past five decades, including when they started flying Hawks in 1979.

Today, the company’s sites in Warton and Samlesbury, Lancashire, build the next generation of the aircraft - the Hawk T2, used to train the RAF’s pilots of the future.

Squadron Leader Jim Turner, Team Leader of the Red Arrows and Red 1, said: “As the new film perfectly captures, the Red Arrows have enjoyed a long, and highly-successful, partnership with BAE Systems by flying the Hawk aircraft.

“The jet is a testimony to British engineering and excellence – hallmarks of both the Royal Air Force and BAE Systems. The Red Arrows have inspired and entertained millions of people since 1965 and, in our 50th season, continue to represent the RAF, the United Kingdom and our nation’s industry at home and overseas.

“With the support of the latest technology and engineering, I hope the Red Arrows can go on and carry out this important role for many years to come – celebrating and showing the very best of British.”

Chris Boardman, managing director of BAE Systems Military Air and Information business, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our long association with the RAF Red Arrows who inspire audiences across the globe with their incredible flying displays. With that in mind we wanted to celebrate their 50th season and publicly thank them for their work.”