'World-class' Red Arrows to join Royal Navy ships for US celebration flypasts - when

World-renowned pilots in the Red Arrows will join the UK Carrier Strike Group (UKCSG) on its visit to the United States. The RAF acrobatic team and Royal Navy ships will make appearances in New York and New Orleans to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

Air Vice-Marshal Mark Jackson, Air Officer Commanding No. 1 Group, said: “We’re honoured to accept the US military’s invitation for the Red Arrows to participate in these special July 4 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, whether that be on operations and exercises or by joining with other allies as part of NATO.

“I hope the Red Arrows’ trademark combination of close formation flying, speed and world-class precision will excite and inspire the hundreds of thousands of people attending these shows.”

The showcase tour spans an entire month with different public engagements. Royal Navy personnel will visit New Orleans later this month, while also attending the US Navy’s International Naval Review 250 in the port of New York and New Jersey in July. Musicians from the Royal Marines Band Service will perform at the celebrations.

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The Red Arrows will deliver a series of spectacular displays at 13 events across New York, Washington, Wisconsin, Maine, Maryland and Michigan between June 27 and July 26. On Independence Day itself (July 4), the Red Arrows will conduct a flypast over New York, performing in front of crowds expected to reach tens of thousands of people. Proceeding this, they’ll make several visits across the UK.

Officer Commanding the Red Arrows, Wing Commander, Sasha Nash 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, alongside friends, allies and international counterparts.”

Defence minister Lord Coaker, Labour, added: “I offer our sincere congratulations to the United States as it celebrates 250 years of independence. The defence relationship between our nations is built on unparalleled trust, professionalism and shared purpose. British and American forces have served together with distinction for generations, and our alliance remains vital to the security of our countries and our allies around the world.”