RAF Red Arrows Demonstration Team

About The RAF Red Arrows Demonstration Team

Representing the speed, agility and precision of the Royal Air Force, the team is the public face of the service. They assist in recruiting to the Armed Forces, act as ambassadors for the United Kingdom at home and overseas and promote the best of British.

They are making a rare appearance in the United States this year, as they come to help celebrate America 250. Thunder Over Michigan is one of just five stops they will make during their North American tour. 

Flying distinctive Hawk fast-jets, the team is made up of pilots, engineers and essential support staff with frontline, operational experience. Together, they demonstrate the excellence and capabilities of the Royal Air Force and the Service’s skilled, talented people.

Often with their trademark Diamond Nine shape, and combination of close formations and precision flying, the Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965.

About the Hawk T Mk1

The Hawk T Mk1 is a fully aerobatic, low-wing, transonic, two-seat training aircraft that is used by the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows.  It is expected to remain in service until the end of the 2029 display season as the mount of the Red Arrows.

The aircraft has supported Red Arrows displays around the world, featuring in shows as far south as Australia; on California’s Pacific coastline to the west; at Zhuhai, China, to the east; and extensively across mainland Europe, the Gulf and in every corner of the UK.

General Characteristics

Powerplant: Rolls-Royce Adour
Thrust: 5,200lbs
Length: 11.9 metres (34.1 ft)
Wingspan: 9.4 metres (30.8 ft)
Maximum speed: Mach 1.2
Maximum range: 1,000nm (737.56 ft-lbs)
Maximum altitude: 14,630 metres (48,000ft)
Engine type:  Twin shaft turbofan

Learn more about the Red Arrows Demo Team: https://www.raf.mod.uk/display-teams/red-arrows/

*Please note that the lineup is subject to change without notice.