Red Arrows to Use Seven-Jet Formation for Most 2026 Displays

The Red Arrows will operate with a seven-jet formation for most performances through at least 2030 because the engines on their Hawk T1 aircraft are no longer manufactured, GB News reported. Air force commanders decided earlier this year to reduce the standard formation from nine aircraft to seven to reduce strain on the remaining engines.

The squadron will begin its 2026 season this weekend in Crete with the smaller display.

The nine-jet Diamond Nine formation will be used only for selected events, including the King's birthday flypast and the July 4 commemorations in the United States marking 250 years since American independence. For all other displays across the UK, mainland Europe and elsewhere, the seven-jet formation will be standard.

An RAF spokesman stated: "The Red Arrows will fly in a nine aircraft formation for HM The King's Birthday Flypast and the 4th of July 250 Commemorations in the USA this year. For other displays, they will operate with a seven aircraft, continuing to deliver high-quality engaging displays at air shows and events across the UK, mainland Europe and further afield.

" The current arrangement will continue until the Ministry of Defence obtains replacement aircraft. The Hawk T1 fleet is scheduled for retirement in 2030 after a service extension granted in 2021. A major defence investment plan that was expected last autumn remains unpublished, delaying decisions on a successor fleet.

This is the second time in recent years the squadron has used a reduced formation, having previously flown seven aircraft in 2022.