MP calls for Red Arrows to remain British-made
The Conservative MP for North Hykeham and Sleaford has called for them to continue being made in Britain
An MP has called for the Red Arrows to continue being made in Britain amid claims that their future is in question.
The British-built Hawk T1 jets that the iconic RAF display team fly are due to be retired by 2030, and questions have been raised over whether a UK company can supply them in time.
Defence chiefs are considering various international options after the decision has been repeatedly delayed, according to media reports.
The only UK company in contention, Aeralis, says it could deliver on time, but the government needs to make a decision soon.
The Ministry of Defence says that no final procurement decisions have been made yet.
MP Dr Caroline Johnson, who represents RAF Waddington where the team is stationed, has called on the government to act quickly and keep the Red Arrows British.
“The Red Arrows are a proud symbol for our country, for our defence industry and for Lincolnshire – where they call home at RAF Waddington,” the Conservative MP for North Hykeham and Sleaford said.
“Generations have seen the team practice in the Lincolnshire skies and then go represent the UK on the world stage. Their excellence is a reminder of our nation’s capabilities.
“The Government’s dither and delay to release the Defence Investment Plan risks hindering the Red Arrows and our wider Armed Forces’ ability to plan and procure what they need to succeed.
“Ministers must get on with releasing the plan and back our Armed Forces.”
The Hawk T1s have been used by the Red Arrows since 1980, although the team says that the 2029 display season is likely to be their last.
One international group which is being looked at by defence chiefs is a collaboration between American-Swedish company Boeing-Saab and BAE Systems.
Another is an Italian manufacturer Leondardo.
A report in the Express claims that government is likely to opt for a lengthy selection process, which could rule out Aeralis due to the costs involved.
The Red Arrows are one of the UK’s biggest cultural exports, performing at aerobatics shows around the world.
The Ministry of Defence said: “The fast jet trainer programme is ongoing and no final procurement decisions have been made.
“More broadly, this Government is backing British jobs, British industry and British innovators. Since July 2024, we have signed 1,100 major contracts, with 84% of our annual spend going to British companies.”
The Red Arrows are one of Lincolnshire’s most iconic sites, having been based at airbases around Bomber County since 1983.