The Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force’s iconic aerobatic display team, have captivated millions worldwide since 1965. But behind the spectacular flypasts and global tours lies a fascinating story of strategic base locations across the UK and abroad. From their roots at RAF Little Rissington to their current home at RAF Waddington, the history of Red Arrows bases reflects their evolution, growth, and continued excellence in aviation.
1965: RAF Little Rissington – Where It All Began
The journey began in 1965 at RAF Little Rissington in Gloucestershire, where the newly unified aerobatic team first flew seven Folland Gnat aircraft in formation. Their first official display took place here on May 6, marking the birth of the Red Arrows.
1965–1983: RAF Fairford and RAF Kemble – Early Development
Shortly after formation, the team moved to RAF Fairford, performing 65 shows in its debut season. In 1966, RAF Kemble in Gloucestershire became the team’s main base for the next 17 years. These bases hosted the development of the now-signature “Diamond Nine” formation, officially adopted in 1968 when the number of display aircraft increased to nine.
1983–2022: RAF Scampton – The Era of Global Prestige
In 1983, the Red Arrows made a historic move to RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire – a base steeped in RAF history, known for the Dambusters raids. Over nearly four decades, RAF Scampton became synonymous with the Red Arrows. It was here that the Gnat was retired and replaced by the advanced BAE Systems Hawk T1 in 1980.
RAF Scampton also supported major international deployments, including the 1995–1996 World Tour, the 2012 London Olympic flypast, and the 2016 Asia-Pacific tour, which reached over one billion people. These milestones solidified the base as a cornerstone of the team’s global legacy.
1995–2000: RAF College Cranwell – A Temporary Transition
Between 1995 and 2000, while RAF Scampton underwent upgrades, the Red Arrows temporarily relocated to RAF College Cranwell, also in Lincolnshire. This prestigious officer training site maintained the team’s access to excellent facilities during this transitional period.
2022–Present: RAF Waddington – A New Chapter
With RAF Scampton scheduled for closure, the Red Arrows officially relocated to RAF Waddington in late 2022. This state-of-the-art station now hosts the Red Arrows and supports their operational requirements with upgraded infrastructure, strategic location, and enhanced security.
The move marks a fresh era for the team – one that combines heritage with innovation. Special Red Arrows 60th anniversary artwork was added to the jets in 2024 to celebrate the milestone and honour the legacy of both RAF Scampton and their new home at Waddington.
International Deployment and Overseas Operating Bases
In addition to their UK bases, the Red Arrows frequently operate from RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus during training and transit phases for overseas tours. Notably, the 2016 deployment to 17 countries – including the team’s debut in China – and the 2019 North American tour underscore the team’s global reach and diplomatic role as UK ambassadors.
Why RAF Red Arrows Bases Matter
The Red Arrows’ base locations are more than just airfields—they are essential to the team’s logistical, strategic, and symbolic identity. From the Gnat era at Little Rissington to the Hawk-powered high-tech precision displays from Waddington, each base has played a critical role in shaping the team’s performance and legacy.
Explore more about the jets they fly, discover where they’re performing next, and stay updated via our live Red Arrows tracker.
Want a deeper dive? Check out our historical timeline and follow the team’s journey from the skies of Gloucestershire to the global stage.