The Red Arrows have completed a landmark month-long tour of the United States, celebrating 250 years of American independence with spectacular aerial displays alongside US military teams. The RAF aerobatic team flew alongside the US Air Force's Blue Angels over Boston, Massachusetts, and participated in a multi-formation flypast above Brunswick, Maine, on July 10.
Joint Flypasts and Fourth of July Celebrations
The tour, part of Operation Eagle Hawk, included appearances across Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland, and Michigan. Earlier in July, the Red Arrows joined a major international flypast over New York to mark Independence Day, with more than 150 aircraft from around the world flying above the Hudson River. The RAF stated: "The month-long tour by the aerobatic team will acknowledge the historic and important relationship with the UK's strongest and closest security partner."
First North American Tour Since 2019
The 2026 deployment marked the Red Arrows' first tour of North America since 2019. Air Officer Commanding No. 1 Group, Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson, said: "We're honoured to accept the US military's invitation for the Red Arrows to participate in these special Fourth of July events in the country's 250th year. The Royal Air Force has a long, proud history of working side-by-side with the Armed Forces of the United States."
Challenging Atlantic Crossing
The journey across the Atlantic required careful planning due to the Hawk T1 jets' limited range. The aircraft travelled in eight separate legs, stopping in Stornoway, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada to refuel. Wing Commander Jon Bond explained: "Unfortunately, we don't have any air-to-air refuelling capability and our aircraft can only carry about an hour-and-a-half to an hour-45 worth of fuel. These cockpits, that are 40 or 50 years old, can be quite cramped."
Supporting the Mission
Supporting the 11 Hawk T1 jets were two A400M Atlas transport aircraft carrying engineers, equipment, and spare parts. A P-8 Poseidon provided overwatch and search and rescue cover, while an Envoy IV CC1 aircraft acted as a communications relay. Bond noted that the support aircraft were essential: "Our aeroplanes don't have the appropriate radio equipment or navigation aids. We need them to be the eyes and ears for us as we transit across."
Ground Engagement and STEM Outreach
Beyond aerial displays, the team engaged with local communities, including STEM sessions to inspire future pilots and engineers. Wing Commander Sasha Nash, Officer Commanding of the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said: "The whole Red Arrows team are greatly looking forward to visiting the United States – the tour is a fantastic opportunity to display the best of British, at significant events and occasions marking the 250th anniversary."
Upcoming Displays for 2026 Season
After completing Operation Eagle Hawk, the Red Arrows prepared to continue their summer programme with appearances at the Thunder Over Michigan Air Show, Airbourne Eastbourne, Southport Air Show, and Clacton Airshow. International performances are also planned at the Swedish Air Force's 100th anniversary celebrations, NATO Days in the Czech Republic, and Le Touquet Airshow in France.
