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Royal Air Force Red Arrows Aerobatic Team |
They were formed in 1965 as an all-RAF team, replacing a number of unofficial teams that had been sponsored by various RAF commands. Initially they were equipped with seven Folland Gnat trainers, these being less expensive to operate than the front-line fighters. In their first season they flew at 65 shows across Europe and had been awarded the Britannia Trophy by the Royal Aero Club.
In 1966 the team was increased to nine members, enabling them to develop their trademark 3x3 Diamond Nine formation. In 1979 they switched to the BAE Hawk trainer. The Red Arrows have now given shows in over 50 countries, all over the world.
Since December 21, 2000, the Red Arrows have been based at RAF Scampton, near Lincoln.
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