Red Arrows delight crowds above Abu Dhabi

Visiting the UAE to commemorate the Nation’s 50th Anniversary, the Red Arrows plan additional flypasts in Abu Dhabi and Dubai on Wednesday afternoon. There will then be a final stunning display over Expo at 4PM on Friday 8 October.

There will then be a final stunning display over Expo at 4PM on Friday 8 October.

Featuring BAE Systems Hawk T Mk1 aircraft, the two-seater training jet has been used by the Red Arrows since 1979, eight years after the formation of the UAE. The Red Arrows too have a long track record of success, presently in their 57th season and regularly visiting the UAE for over 30 years.

The bond of friendship between the UAE and the UK was recently brought into sharp focus with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to London last month. During this time, an MoU was signed to facilitate greater collaboration on reciprocal industrial developments, highlighting the important role defence and security plays in the relationship.

The themes of this agreement address critical issues associated with economic diversification and career opportunities linked to science, technology and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Speaking on behalf of BAE Systems, key supporters of the Red Arrows tour to the UAE, Jonathan Bird, Director UAE, said: “BAE Systems has a long-standing commitment to engaging the youth of the UAE through training, apprenticeships and internships. Presenting the Red Arrows at this time draws attention to the role we aim to continue to provide working with UAE partners and stakeholders, to develop local capacity and foster talent.”

In Dubai, the performance will support the UK’s wider role at the Expo and highlight the exciting programme taking place at the UK Pavilion over the six-month period. Before the display, engineers and pilots will support a STEM engagement event to showcase what is involved in servicing the aircraft on the ground and flying them with such precision. Following the display, team pilots will also be appearing at the UK Pavilion to meet the public.

During their visit to the UAE, Red Arrows team members have also visited schools, colleges and universities, meeting students and giving a STEM presentation, featuring a BAE Systems-supported video with stunning cockpit footage from displays across the globe.

Wing Commander David Montenegro, Officer Commanding, Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, said, "Expo 2020 Dubai presents a perfect opportunity for the Red Arrows to join the UK’s participation at the event and help showcase Global Britain, to thousands of people, through our dynamic aerial display.

"At the heart of a Red Arrows show is innovation and precision, which mirrors the inspirational theme of the stunning UK Pavilion at Expo.

"Furthermore, the Red Arrows’ visit to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and through our collaboration with counterparts here, demonstrates the close ties we continue to enjoy with the UAE as important partners of the UK."