It has emerged that the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team (RAFAT), the Red Arrows, may leave their current base at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire. In a statement made by Air Chief Marshal Sir Glenn Torpey, he expressed his hope that the RAFAT would stay at their current location, but added that the ultimate decision on this would be made later this year.

Current speculation has it that a potential relocation for the team would come as part of a wider review of the services which the Ministry of Defence is presently undertaking.

One alternative location, said Sir Glenn, would be nearby RAF Waddington, also in Lincolnshire.

The Red Arrows, he added, stood as a "complex operation to run”, given their need to practice three times daily in the build-up to the airshow season, during which, typically, they can give as many as 100 performances. While the Red Arrows take part in a large number of the airshows held in Britain, they also participate in overseas events.

"What we're doing is looking at the most appropriate base for the Red Arrows”, said Sir Glenn. “There are a number of options... and Waddington is one of them.

"They may move but we haven't decided the best location for them at the moment but they will be staying in Lincolnshire, I would hope."

Rachel Huxford – spokesperson for the Reds, stated: "The aspiration is to keep the team in Lincolnshire, because that is our home, and Scampton is ideal."

Red Arrows to Take Part in London Olympics

At the end of October, it was confirmed that the Red Arrows would feature within the opening ceremony for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The Red Arrows are the official aerobatic team of the Royal Air Force, and have now been in existence for over 40 years. While they serve to showcase the precision and excellence of today’s RAF, they also act as a powerful recruitment tool, aiming to interest the younger generation in opting for a career within the air force.  

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

Recent News Items:

Red Arrows-related -

RAF Red Arrows Will Feature in 2012 London Olympics

BAE Systems/India's HAL Discuss New Hawk Jet Deal

Royal Air Force-related -

RAF Apologises for Typhoon's Sonic Boom

£350m Systems Upgrades for RAF Harriers and Tornados

Prince William to Undergo RAF Flight Training