2030: RAF Hawk T1's out of service, future of Red Arrows is doubtful...

[Stratofreighter]

https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/future- ... ce-review/

Future of Red Arrows jets pending Strategic Defence Review

October 29, 2024

Responding to Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty’s query on the replacement of the Royal Red Arrows Hawk T1 aircraft,
Defence Minister Maria Eagle clarified the Ministry of Defence’s current position:

“The planned out-of-service date for Hawk T1 aircraft remains 2030,
and a decision on a replacement aircraft
will not be taken until after the Strategic Defence Review is completed.”

This indicates that while the Red Arrows Hawk T1 jets are scheduled to retire by the end of the decade,
any decisions on a successor
will depend on the outcomes of the ongoing Strategic Defence Review.

The Ministry of Defence’s decision to retire the Hawk T1 aircraft earlier than originally planned,
ending its service on 31 March 2022,
was driven by both financial and practical considerations.

Initially intended to remain in service until 2027,
the retirement was accelerated due to budget constraints outlined in the 2021 Integrated Review.