The Red Arrows have flown two iconic jets throughout their history: the current BAE Hawk T1 and the earlier Folland Gnat T.1. Each has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and excellence of the Royal Air Force’s aerobatic display team.
BAE Hawk T1
The Hawk T1, in service with the Red Arrows since 1979, is a highly capable advanced jet trainer designed and built in Britain. Originally developed by Hawker Siddeley and now part of BAE Systems, the Hawk has proven itself as a reliable and manoeuvrable aircraft perfect for precision flying displays.
- First Flight: 1974
- Engine: Rolls-Royce Adour turbofan
- Max Speed: Over 600 mph (Mach 0.84)
- Service Ceiling: Approximately 44,500 feet
- Features: Tandem seating, digital flight systems, and smoke generation pods for display use
Modified T1A versions are used by the team, equipped with smoke pods under the fuselage to produce the iconic red, white, and blue trails. The Hawk combines efficiency with the agility necessary for world-class formation aerobatics.
Folland Gnat T.1
Before the Hawk, the Red Arrows flew the lightweight Folland Gnat T.1 from 1965 until 1979. Despite its small size, the Gnat was incredibly agile and perfectly suited to the tight formations that became a hallmark of the team’s flying style.
- First Flight: 1955
- Engine: Bristol Siddeley Orpheus turbojet
- Top Speed: Around 695 mph (Mach 0.91)
- Service Entry: 1962 (RAF)
- Display Role: Used by the original Red Arrows team upon their formation
The Gnat’s legacy lives on in British aviation history. It laid the foundations for the Red Arrows’ reputation as a premier aerobatic team, wowing spectators around the world with dynamic displays in this sleek, red-painted jet.