The Red Arrows was formed in 1964, and is the aerobatics display team for the UK’s Royal Air Force (RAF).
The team is made up of 9 pilots and they perform in many shows across the world.
The Red Arrows are famous for their ‘Diamond 9’ formation, which you can see below.
In order to become a Red Arrow pilot, a pilot must have completed more than 1,500 flying hours in a fast jet such as a ‘Tornado’ or a ‘Harrier’. Also, a pilot must have an above average assessment of skill.
More than 10 pilots apply for each place on the team each year, so to become a Red Arrow pilot is extremely difficult.
Pilots stay with the Red Arrows for 3 years, and 3 pilots are changed every year. This means that there are always 3 first year pilots, 3 second year pilots, and 3 in their final year.
Here is another one of their flying formations. This one is called the ‘Apollo Formation’.
This is the Red Arrows badge.
