The Red Arrows badge shows the aircraft in

their trademark diamond nine formation, with

the motto Éclat, a French word meaning

"brilliance" or "excellence".

Initially, they were equipped with seven Folland

Gnat trainers inherited from the RAF Yellowjacks

display team. This aircraft was chosen because

it was less expensive to operate than front-line

fighters. In their first season, they flew at 65

shows across Europe. In 1966, the team was increased to nine members, enabling them to develop their Diamond Nine formation.

In late 1979, they switched to the BAE Hawk trainer.

Since 1966, there have been nine display pilots each year, all volunteers. Pilots must have completed one or more operational tours on a fast jet such as the Tornado, Harrier or Typhoon, have accumulated at least 1,500 flying hours and have been assessed as above average in their operational role to be eligible. Even then, there are more than ten applicants for each place on the team. Pilots stay with the Red Arrows for a three-year tour of duty. Three pilots are changed every year, such that there are normally three first year pilots, three second year pilots, and three in their final year. The Team Leader also spends three years with the team. The 'Boss', as he is known to the rest of the team, is always a pilot who has previously completed a three year tour with the Red Arrows, often (although not always) including a season as the leader of the Synchro Pair.

The Red Arrows have performed over 4,600 displays in 56 countries worldwide.

Source: Wikipedia

Images: Believed to be in the Public Domain or used with permission

The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team