Red Arrows to display with 7 rather than 9 Hawk T1 jets
It was officially announced on Saturday 23rd May 2026 that the Red Arrows will display with seven, rather than nine Hawk T1 jets.
This is so that they can manage the final few years of service by the Hawk T1 aircraft based on the available spares and other components.
However, the Red Arrows formation size will be nine aircraft for significant flypasts and state occasions.
All Hawk T1 aircraft remaining in the RAF's fleet will be retired in 2030.
• Red Arrows Display Schedule 2026.